Tularemia (Francisella Tularensis)

Tularemia (Francisella tularensis) also known as Rabbit Fever, is a potentially dangerous bacteria that is found in rabbits, hares, prairie dogs, other small animals, including pet hamsters. It is contracted by approximately 4 individuals a year living in Oregon. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “humans become infected mainly through the bite of arthropods, particularly ticks and mosquitoes, and through the skin, conjunctival sac or oropharyngeal mucosa, by direct contact with infected animals or animal materials and by ingestion of contaminated food or water or inhalation of contaminated dust or aerosols.” According to Oregon Health Authority Tularemia is found in over 250 species of animals, like rabbits, birds, mammals,

fish and reptiles. Even the common house cat has been known to acquire this disease and give it to their human companions. The symptoms are chills, acute fever, diarrhea, joint pain, dry cough, headache, fatigue/weakness, mouth and throat lesions.

Tularemia is very diverse in its mode of transport. It can be acquired through direct contact with an infected animal, fluids or tissues. It can be ingested by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water. It can be inhaled as a spray or aerosol if airborne. Or as mentioned above it can be acquired by bug bites. No known cases have been reported of the bacteria acquired from person to person contact.

Its incubation period is between 3 to 14 days. Once a person becomes infected with the bacteria they should immediately visit their healthcare provider for antibiotics. The medications used to treat Tularemia are Streptomycin or Gentamicin for 10 to 14 days. Although they are currently working on a vaccine it has yet to be released in the United States.

Depending how a person became infected makes a difference. The bacteria are very infectious if airborne it can easily become either a pulmonary or typhoidal disease, which can be fatal. This disease is considered a disease that can be turned into a “Category A” bioterrorist weapon agent.

The way to break the chain of infection is by using insect repellent when outside in the woods or by treating your clothes with insect repellent made for clothing. Wash your hands if you have possibly touched an infected animal or animal fluids. If you plan to eat wild game, then make sure it is washed in safe water and cooked thoroughly.