‘Rabbit fever’ cases have risen in US as CDC warns of zoonotic bacterial disease

Cases of tularemia, also known as “rabbit fever,” are on the rise in the U.S., according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This disease, caused by the bacteria Francisella tularensis, commonly infects rabbits, hares, and rodents, but can also spread from animals to humans, making it a zoonotic disease.

Tularemia is classified as a “tier-1 select agent,” which means it is considered one of the agents with the greatest risk of deliberate misuse and poses a severe threat to public health and safety. While the disease is relatively rare, with only 2,462 diagnoses between 2011 and 2022, there has been a 56% increase in cases compared to the previous decade.

One of the reasons for this increase could be improved detection methods. Dr. Daniel Ruderfer, chief of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Hackensack Meridian K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital in New Jersey, believes that newer detection methods, such as PCR testing, have played a significant role in the rise of reported cases.

Humans can contract tularemia through various means, including bites from deer flies or ticks, contact with infected animals, or exposure to contaminated water or aerosols. Symptoms of the disease can vary but often include chills, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, chest discomfort, and gastrointestinal issues.

In severe cases, tularemia can lead to complications such as pneumonia, conjunctivitis, and even bloodstream infections. While the death rate from tularemia is typically low, it can be as high as 24% in rare severe cases. Treatment for tularemia involves antibiotics, as there is currently no vaccine available for the disease.

Certain populations are at a higher risk for tularemia, including children between 5 and 9 years old, older men, American Indian and Alaskan Native people, and those living in central U.S. states. However, the general population is not at an obvious risk unless they come into contact with infected animals or arthropods.

It is important for those who hunt or interact with rabbits regularly to be aware of the symptoms of tularemia and seek medical attention if they experience any concerning signs. The CDC recommends taking precautions to avoid contact with potentially infected animals and ticks to reduce the risk of contracting the disease.

Overall, tularemia is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening infection if left untreated. Awareness of the disease, its symptoms, and prevention methods can help reduce the spread of tularemia and protect public health.