Rabbit Fever (Tularemia)

Why in the news?

• Rabbit fever (tularemia) has increased rapidly in the US in the last few years, making it a matter of concern.
  • According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of rabbit fever increased by 56 percent between 2011 and 2022.

Tularemia:

• Common name: Rabbit fever
• Cause: Bacteria called Francisella tularensis
• Severity of infection: A rare but serious bacterial infection

How does it spread to humans?

1. Contact with infected animals
   • Contact with infected animals such as rabbits, hares, and rodents
2. Direct contact:
   • If a person comes into contact with the blood, tissues, or other body parts of an infected animal.
3. Other sources:
   • Bites from insects such as ticks and flies.
   • Ingestion of contaminated water or food.
   • Breathing in the bacteria from the air around infected animals.

Note: It does not spread from human to human.

Early signs and symptoms of tularemia:

• Its early signs and symptoms depend on the type of infection and the route of its spread.
• Symptoms usually appear three to five days after infection.
• The fever increases suddenly and rapidly, reaching 104°F (40°C).
• Flu-like symptoms
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Headache and muscle aches
• Sore throat, and swelling
• Sometimes diarrhoea and vomiting may also occur.

Treatment:

• Streptomycin and gentamicin:
• These antibiotics are used as the first option and are effective for quick treatment.
• Doxycycline and ciprofloxacin:
• These are used in mild cases.