Tularemia (Rabbit Fever): Transmission, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Tularemia is a bacterial infection caused by Francisella tularensis, often transmitted from rabbits to humans.

Transmission Routes & Symptoms

• Ulceroglandular (skin contact): Fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, skin ulcer at bite/scratch site, swollen lymph nodes.
• Pneumonic (inhalation): Respiratory symptoms, pneumonia.
• Oropharyngeal (ingestion): Sore throat, gastrointestinal upset from contaminated food/water.

Treatment

Antibiotics (gentamicin, doxycycline) are effective when started early.

Prevention

• Avoid contact with wild rabbits/rodents.
• Wear gloves when handling animals.
• Wash hands thoroughly.
• Cook meat thoroughly; avoid unpasteurized milk.

Early diagnosis and treatment lead to full recovery.