CDC Reports Alarming Rise in Rare but Potentially Fatal Disease

A concerning uptick in tularemia, or “rabbit fever,” has been documented across the United States over the past decade, according to a new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report. The disease, while still rare, shows a 56% higher incidence rate compared to the previous decade.

What is rabbit fever? 

Tularemia is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. Humans can contract this disease through various means, including bites from infected ticks and deer flies and direct skin contact with infected animals such as rabbits, hares, and rodents, which are highly vulnerable to the disease.

“The case fatality rate of tularemia is typically below 2%, though it can be higher depending on the clinical presentation and bacterial strain,” the CDC report authors state.

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Shifting demographics and risk patterns

The data reveals striking disparities in infection rates. Native Americans and Alaska Natives face five times higher risk compared to White populations, potentially due to geographical and occupational factors. Children aged 5-9, men between 65-84, and central U.S. residents also show elevated risk levels.

Improved Detection Methods Impact Statistics

Between 2011 and 2022, 2,462 cases were reported across 47 states, with a significant shift in case classification. The introduction of PCR testing in 2017 has led to probable cases now accounting for 60% of total cases, up from 35% in the previous decade.

Understanding rabbit fever (Tularemia): Symptoms and prevention

Symptoms of Tularemia
Tularemia, or rabbit fever, presents symptoms of varying severity, with high fever being a common trait across all forms. The specific symptoms depend on how the infection occurs. As per the CDC, potential symptoms include skin ulcers, mouth ulcers, and a sore throat.

The oculoglandular form, caused by bacteria entering the eyes (e.g., during activities like handling infected animals), manifests through eye irritation, inflammation, and swollen lymph glands near the ears. Respiratory symptoms like coughing, chest pain, and breathing difficulties may also occur.

Preventive measures
To minimize the risk of tularemia infection, consider these precautions:

• Apply insect repellents to deter ticks and insects.
• Wear long sleeves and pants to prevent bites.
• Remove ticks promptly using fine-tipped tweezers.
• Avoid drinking untreated surface water.
• Use masks during activities like lawn mowing to avoid inhaling bacteria.
• Wear gloves when handling animals such as rabbits, muskrats, or rodents.
• Cook game meat thoroughly before consumption.

Important Note
Currently, no vaccine is available for public use.