Tularemia, commonly known as rabbit fever, is a rare infectious disease that can affect humans and animals. It is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. Symptoms may include fever, skin ulcers, and enlarged lymph nodes. It is usually transmitted through contact with infected animals or bites from ticks, deer flies, or mosquitoes.

Tularemia FAQ


What are the symptoms of tularemia?

Symptoms may include sudden fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, dry cough, and progressive weakness.

How is tularemia transmitted to humans?

Tularemia is usually transmitted by handling infected animals, through bites of infected arthropods such as ticks, deer flies, or mosquitoes, or by drinking contaminated water.

Can tularemia be fatal?

Tularemia can be effectively treated with antibiotics. Early diagnosis and proper treatment lead to a full recovery. However, without treatment, severe cases can be fatal.

Is tularemia contagious?

Tularemia is not known to be spread from person to person, except through rare cases of blood transfusion or laboratory exposure.

How is tularemia diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on symptoms, travel history, and possible exposure to infected animals or insect bites. Laboratory tests can confirm the presence of the bacterium.

Are there vaccines available for tularemia?

A live vaccine is available in the United States for individuals at high risk of exposure to F. tularensis, such as laboratory workers and military personnel.

Is tularemia common in Australia?

Tularemia is extremely rare in Australia, with only a few reported cases in humans or animals. Cases are more commonly found in North America, Europe, and Asia.

How soon do symptoms appear after exposure to tularemia?

Symptoms usually appear 3 to 5 days after exposure, but can take up to 14 days to show.

Can my pet transmit tularemia to me?

While cats, dogs, and rabbits can get tularemia, the risk of transmission to humans is low. Practicing good hygiene and taking preventive measures can reduce the risk further.

Is there a difference between rabbit fever and tularemia?

No, they both refer to the same infectious disease caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis.

Are there any natural remedies for tularemia?

There are no proven natural remedies for tularemia. Antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional are the most effective treatment.

Can tularemia spread through consuming contaminated food?

Consuming contaminated food is not a common route of transmission for tularemia to humans.

Is hunting or handling wild animals a risk factor for tularemia?

Hunting or handling wild animals, especially rabbits and rodents, can pose a risk of tularemia infection. Taking precautionary measures is important when dealing with wildlife.

Can tularemia be prevented?

Preventive measures include wearing insect repellent, avoiding direct contact with sick or dead animals, and cooking wild game thoroughly before consuming.

Should I seek medical attention if I suspect tularemia?

If you suspect tularemia due to possible exposure or experience symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

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