Tularemia, often called "Rabbit Fever," is a rare but serious infectious disease. Understanding what is tularemia and its diverse modes of transmission is vital, especially for those in outdoor professions or handling animals. Don't overlook the subtle signs of this dangerous illness.
What are the main causes of Tularemia?
- The disease is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis, a highly infectious pathogen found in wild animals, especially rabbits and rodents.
- How do you get tularemia? It's primarily transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, deer flies (tick and deer fly fever), or direct contact with infected animal tissues.
- Ingesting contaminated food or water, or inhaling airborne bacteria (e.g., from mowing over an infected animal), are less common but possible routes.
Key symptoms of Tularemia to watch for
- The most common form is ulceroglandular tularemia, characterized by a skin ulcer at the infection site and swelling of nearby lymph nodes (glandular tularemia).
- Other tularemia symptoms include sudden onset of fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue, which can be mistaken for other illnesses.
- Depending on the exposure route, symptoms can also involve pneumonia (inhalation), sore throat (ingestion), or eye infection (ocular contact).
How can you prevent Tularemia effectively?
- Tularemia prevention involves avoiding contact with sick or dead animals and wearing gloves when handling infected animals, especially rabbits and rodents.
- Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin, wear long sleeves and pants, and perform thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors.
- Ensure drinking water is safe, and thoroughly cook all wild game meat, especially rabbits and squirrels, to an internal temperature of at least 74°C (165°F).
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Microscopic images of Tularemia
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Early diagnosis and tularemia treatment with antibiotics for tularemia are crucial for a full recovery. If you suspect exposure or develop symptoms, inform your doctor about potential animal or insect contact. This bacterial agent is also recognized as a potential bioterrorism agent.
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