Tularemia, also known as rabbit fever or deer fly fever, is a severe infectious disease caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. This zoonotic pathogen primarily affects wild animals such as rabbits, rodents, and hares but can also be transmitted to humans through various routes of exposure. The disease is named after Tulare County in California, where the first recorded case was documented.
Typically, tularemia can be contracted through direct contact with infected animals, ingestion of contaminated water or food, inhalation of contaminated aerosols, or via the bite of infected ticks, flies, or mosquitoes. The symptoms of tularemia can vary depending on the route of infection, but common manifestations include sudden onset of fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. In severe cases, tularemia can cause pneumonia-like symptoms, chest pain, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are crucial in managing tularemia, as the disease can progress rapidly and potentially become life-threatening if left untreated. Apart from medication, preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing, using insect repellents, and avoiding potentially infectious animals and environments are essential in reducing the risk of contracting tularemia.
Tularemia is considered a rare disease, with sporadic cases reported globally. However, due to its potential for use as a biological weapon, tularemia is classified as a Category A bioterrorism agent by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), prompting continuous surveillance and research efforts to better understand and control this infectious disease.
