Tularemia FAQ
What is Rabbit Fever?
Rabbit Fever, also known as Tularemia, is a rare infectious disease caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis.
How is Tularemia transmitted?
Tularemia can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, insect bites, contaminated water, or inhalation of airborne bacteria.
What are the symptoms of Rabbit Fever?
Symptoms of Tularemia may include sudden fever, skin ulcers, swollen lymph nodes, and in severe cases, pneumonia.
Is Tularemia treatable?
Yes, Tularemia is treatable with antibiotics. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can result in a full recovery.
Can humans get Tularemia from rabbits?
Yes, humans can get Tularemia from handling infected rabbits or through the bites of infected ticks and deer flies.
How can Tularemia be prevented?
Preventive measures include wearing gloves when handling animals, using insect repellent, and avoiding untreated water sources in high-risk areas.
Is Tularemia contagious?
Tularemia is not directly contagious from person to person. It is contracted from environmental exposure to infected animals or insects.
Are there specific populations at higher risk of Tularemia?
Those at higher risk include hunters, landscapers, veterinarians, and people who work in outdoor settings with potential exposure to wildlife.
What should I do if I think I have been exposed to Tularemia?
Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect exposure to Tularemia. Early treatment can prevent complications.
Can Tularemia be fatal?
In rare cases, untreated Tularemia can be fatal. However, with prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the prognosis is usually good.
Is there a vaccine for Tularemia?
A vaccine for Tularemia is available for those at high risk of exposure, such as laboratory workers and military personnel.
Can pets transmit Tularemia to humans?
Yes, pets, such as dogs and cats, can contract and transmit Tularemia to humans if they come into contact with infected animals or insects.
What are the possible complications of Tularemia?
Complications of Tularemia can include severe pneumonia, meningitis, or the spread of infection to the bloodstream if left untreated.
Can Tularemia recur after treatment?
Although rare, recurrence of Tularemia has been reported in some cases. It is important to follow up with your healthcare provider after treatment.
Is it safe to consume game meat from rabbits in areas with Tularemia?
Consuming properly cooked game meat from rabbits in areas with Tularemia is generally safe, as it eliminates the risk of infection.
How long does it take for Tularemia symptoms to appear after exposure?
Tularemia symptoms can appear within 3 to 5 days after exposure, but the incubation period can range from 1 to 21 days.
Releated topics
- Is it safe to breastfeed while being treated for amebiasis?
- Where is malaria most common?
- Can I stop taking malaria prevention medications if I don't experience any symptoms of malaria during travel?
- How does sarcoidosis affect the lungs?
- Can men get cystitis?
- Can adults get otitis media?
- How is Pneumocystis Pneumonia diagnosed?
- What over-the-counter medications can help prevent bladder infections?
- Are UTIs more common in older adults?
- Can certain foods make acne worse?
Information provided by Maryam Abdullahi-Mahdi. Reviewed by Mr. Matthew Liew