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Rabbit fever cases are continuously increasing in America. According to the CDC, the number of cases of this disease has increased by more than 50% in the last decade. Rabbit fever, also known as tularemia, is a zoonotic disease spread from rabbits and other animals to humans. The disease can be serious and cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and skin lesions. In such a situation, let us tell you the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods of rabbit fever in this article.
What is rabbit fever?
Tularemia, commonly known as rabbit fever, is a serious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. This bacteria is mainly found in rabbits, rats and other small mammals. In humans, this infection can occur through direct contact with infected animals, their bites, consumption of infected meat, or contact with infected soil or water.
Who are at greater risk?
Tularemia can be a serious infection that can range from mild symptoms to life-threatening conditions. If not treated properly, rabbit fever can cause death in 60% of cases. This disease is usually seen in children between 5 to 9 years, the elderly and tribal communities.
Symptoms of rabbit fever
Fever: This is the most common symptom. The fever may increase suddenly and rapidly, reaching 104°F (40°C).
Chills: Fever is often accompanied by chills.
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 become painful.
Skin lesions: If infection occurs through the skin, the lesions may be red, swollen, and painful.
Sore Throat: Sore throat, swelling and pain may also occur.
Eye problems: Eye irritation, swelling, and redness may also occur.
Difficulty breathing: In severe cases, difficulty breathing may occur.
Diarrhea and vomiting: In some cases, diarrhea 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, rats, and ticks. Infection usually occurs through biting an infected animal, eating the meat of an infected animal, or coming in contact with the feces or urine of an infected animal.
rabbit fever treatment
Rabbit fever is treated with antibiotics. The choice of antibiotics depends on the severity of the infection and the patient’s condition.
rabbit fever prevention
Avoid contact with infected animals.
Do not touch or feed wild animals.
Use 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 avoided if treated timely. If you notice symptoms of rabbit fever, contact a doctor immediately.
