Rare disease linked to rabbits has Colorado health officials on alert
A rare but potentially serious condition disease due to rabbits and ticks This situation, detected in Northern Colorado, led to a warning due to the increased human risk towards summer.
Health officials confirmed tularemia on June 9. confirmed in a dead rabbit It is present in Larimer County and possibly elsewhere as well. Although infections in humans are rare, the disease can be spread through insect bites, contact with animals and airborne dust, making outdoor precautions critical during peak months.
“Because Tularemia present in Larimer County“It is important to take steps to prevent infection,” said Paul Mayer, medical officer for the Larimer County health department. Mayer advised residents to always “use effective insect repellent, check their skin for ticks after being outside, and keep children and pets away from wild animals, including rabbits and squirrels.”
A rabbit is depicted in tall grass.
What is tularemia?
Tularemia is caused by bacteria usually found in rabbits and rodents. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The disease can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animal tissue, inhaling contaminated dust, or drinking contaminated water.
The disease can also be transmitted to humans through ticks and deer flies.
How rare is tularemia in humans?
according to HKMTularemia is a relatively rare disease in humans.
In 2023, 196 cases in humans were reported in the United States, although this rarity was not always the case; In the mid-20th century, cases in the United States were around 1,000 per year.
How can I prevent tularemia?
Colorado health officials also We’ve outlined the steps people can take To reduce the risk of tularemia:
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Wear gloves when gardening and wash your hands before eating or touching your face.
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Use an EPA-registered insect repellent (such as DEET or picaridin) that is effective against ticks and biting flies.
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Wear a dust mask when mowing, using a leaf blower, or digging.
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Wear shoes outdoors, especially in areas where dead animals may be found.
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Wear protective gloves to remove dead rabbits or rodents from your property.
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is USA TODAY’s trending news reporter. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@usatodayco.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.
This article first appeared on USA TODAY: Tularemia was detected in Colorado. Here’s how to protect yourself
