Smileband health topics

Tularemia is caused by the bacteria Francisella tularensis. Tularemia circulates naturally among rabbits and rodents. There are 6 forms of tularemia, with ulceroglandular being the most common. Symptoms often occur within 3-5 days of exposure. Symptoms include:

• fever
• headache
• chills
• muscle aches
• joint pain
• dry cough
• weakness
• swollen lymph glands.

In Arizona, tularemia is usually found in areas above 3,000 feet, and common exposures have included contact with rabbit carcasses and insect bites.

 

Arizona 5 year median: 0 cases

 

Transmission

Transmission can occur by an individual being bit by an infected insect such as a tick or deer fly, by touching a sick or dead animal that is infected with the bacteria, eating or drinking contaminated food or water or by breathing in the bacteria.

Incubation period can range from 1 to 21 days (average 3 to 5 days) Isolation Precautions

Not spread person to person. 

Francisella can be used as a bioterrorism agent due to a small infectious dose and aerosol exposure.

Prevention for Patients

• Use insect repellent containing DEET, or treat clothing with repellent containing permethrin, to prevent insect bites.
• Use care and wear gloves when handling sick or dead animals.
• Be sure to cook food thoroughly and that water is from a safe source.
• Note any change in the behavior of pets and consult a veterinarian if they develop unusual symptoms.
• Avoid contact with sick or dead wildlife.

Public Health Actions
Domestics pets can also show signs of tularemia and be sources of exposure for human infections. Francisella can be used as a bioterrorism agent due to a small infectious dose and aerosol exposure.