There is a steady increase in cases of Rabbit Fever in the US. According to the CDC, cases of this disease have seen a jump of more than 50% in the last decade. Rabbit fever, also known as tularemia, is a zoonotic disease that spreads from rabbits and other animals to humans. This disease can be serious and cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and skin lesions. In such a situation, let us tell you in this article the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods of rabbit fever.

What is Rabbit Fever?

Tularemia, commonly known as rabbit fever, is a serious bacterial infection caused by the bacteria Francisella tularensis. The bacteria is found primarily in rabbits, mice and other small mammals. Humans can be infected through direct contact with infected animals, bites, consumption of infected meat or contact with infected soil or water.

Which people are more at risk?

Tularemia can be a serious infection that can range from mild symptoms to a life-threatening condition. If left untreated, rabbit fever can result in death in 60% of cases. The disease is most commonly seen in children aged 5 to 9 years, the elderly, and tribal communities.

Symptoms of Rabbit Fever

• Fever: This is the most common symptom. The fever can rise suddenly and rapidly, reaching as high as 104°F (40°C).
• Chills: Chills often accompany fever.
• Flu-like symptoms: Fatigue, headache, muscle pain, loss of appetite, etc. may also appear.
• Swollen lymph nodes: Lymph nodes near the site of infection become swollen and may be painful.
• Skin lesions: If the infection occurs through the skin, the lesions may be red, swollen, and painful.
• Sore throat: The throat may be sore, swollen, and painful.
• Eye problems: Eye irritation, swelling, and redness may also occur.
• Difficulty breathing: In severe cases, difficulty breathing may occur.
• Diarrhoea and vomiting: In some cases, diarrhoea and vomiting may also occur.

Causes of Rabbit Fever

Rabbit fever is caused by a bacteria called Francisella Tularensis. This bacteria is found in a variety of animals, such as rabbits, squirrels, mice, and ticks. Infection usually occurs through a bite from an infected animal, eating the meat of an infected animal, or coming into contact with the feces or urine of an infected animal.

Treatment for Rabbit Fever

Rabbit fever is treated with antibiotics. The choice of antibiotics depends on the severity of the infection and the condition of the patient.

Prevention of Rabbit Fever

• Avoid contact with infected animals.
• Do not touch or feed wild animals.
• Exercise caution when handling rabbits or other small animals.
• Do not touch dead animals.
• Wear long clothes and gloves when going into the woods.
• Use insecticides to protect against pests.
• Avoid going to infected areas.

Rabbit fever is a serious disease, but it can be prevented if treated on time. If you notice symptoms of rabbit fever, contact a doctor immediately.