‘Rabbit fever’ infections have risen 56% in previous decade, CDC experiences

Instances of a bacterial an infection referred to as “rabbit fever” have been growing throughout the previous decade.

Instances of tularemia elevated by 56% throughout the 2010s in comparison with the earlier decade, researchers report within the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

Half of all of the almost 2,500 reported instances between 2011 and 2022 got here from 4 states: Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma. Nevertheless, instances have been reported in 47 states.

“The case fatality price of tularemia is usually lower than 2% however might be as excessive as 24%,” the analysis crew led by CDC epidemiologist Kiersten Kugeler famous.

The illness is attributable to the bacterium Francisella tularensis, “an organism that has been designated a tier-1 choose agent based mostly on its potential for misuse as a bioweapon,” the researchers wrote.

Individuals can change into contaminated by tick or deer fly bites, consuming water contaminated with the micro organism, or coming into contact with contaminated animals like rabbits or rodents, the CDC says.

Tularemia is treatable with antibiotics, however can grow to be pneumonia if not addressed, researchers stated.

Signs can embrace pores and skin ulcers, eye infections, sore throat, cough, problem respiratory, and swollen lymph glands, relying how the micro organism handed into an individual’s physique.

American Indian/Alaskan Native individuals are significantly in danger, with a tularemia an infection price about 5 instances that amongst whites, researchers stated.

Incidence was highest amongst kids 5 to 9 years previous, in addition to senior males 65 and older.

Researchers famous that the findings would possibly mirror an precise improve in human infections, or improved detection of latest instances thanks to higher lab exams.

Individuals can defend themselves in opposition to tularemia through the use of insect repellant and carrying lengthy pants, lengthy sleeves and lengthy socks to beat back ticks and deer flies, the CDC says.

Additionally they ought to keep away from sick animals, not mow over lifeless animals, and put on gloves when dealing with wild animals, the CDC stated.

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