Tularemia is a rare infectious disease that can attack your skin, lungs, eyes, and lymph nodes. Sometimes it’s called rabbit fever or deer fly fever, reflecting its association with animals like rabbits and the bite of certain insects. It’s caused by a bacteria called Francisella tularensis. It can be transmitted to humans through various means, including direct contact with infected animals, bites from infected insects, or even inhalation of contaminated aerosols.
Causes of tularemia
People can become sick with tularemia, but it’s not a disease that naturally occurs in humans. This disease, caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis, primarily affects a variety of wild animals, particularly rabbits, which are often considered its main reservoir. It can also impact other animals, including rodents, sheep, and birds, leading to significant health issues among these populations. In addition, house pets like dogs and cats can get tularemia too, especially if they come into contact with infected wildlife or contaminated environments. While transmission to humans is relatively rare, those who work closely with animals or spend time in areas where the disease is prevalent should be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions to prevent infection, as tularemia can manifest in several forms, ranging from mild to severe.
Symptoms of tularemia
If you do become sick after being exposed to Francisella tularensis, you’re likely to start having symptoms within 3 to 5 days; however, it can take up to 2 weeks for symptoms to manifest fully, depending on various factors such as the route of exposure and individual health conditions. The initial symptoms are often non-specific, resembling those of other infectious illnesses, and may include fever, chills, and fatigue. As the disease progresses, there are different types of tularemia that each have their own specific symptoms, such as skin ulcers, swollen lymph nodes, or respiratory issues, making it essential for anyone who suspects exposure to seek medical attention promptly for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Ulceroglandular tularemia is the most common variety of the disease. Symptoms can include:
- An ulcer on the skin that’s usually caused by a bite from an infected animal or insect
- Lymph glands that are painful and swollen
- Fever
- Chills
- Headache
- Fatigue
Oculoglandular tularemia affects the eyes. Symptoms can include:
- Pain, swelling, or discharge in the eye
- Redness in the eye
- Light sensitivity
- An ulcer that forms inside the eyelid
- Tender lymph glands around the ear, neck, and jaw
Oropharyngeal tularemia affects the mouth, throat, and digestive system. It’s the form of the disease that’s most often caused by eating undercooked meat from a wild animal or drinking water that’s contaminated. Symptoms can include:
- Throat pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Swollen tonsils or lymph nodes in the neck
- Ulcers in the mouth
- Fever
Pneumonic tularemia can cause symptoms that are often associated with pneumonia, including:
- Trouble breathing
- Pain in the chest
- A dry cough
Typhoidal tularemia is a rare, but very serious form of the disease. Symptoms can include:
- An enlarged spleen or liver
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Severe fatigue
- Elevated fever
Diagnosis and Treatment
It can be challenging to diagnose tularemia because its symptoms often resemble those of other diseases, leading to potential misdiagnosis. Common symptoms may include fever, chills, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. Because these signs can present similarly to various respiratory or viral infections, thorough evaluations are critical. Your healthcare provider will conduct specific tests to confirm the presence of the Francisella tularensis bacteria, which causes tularemia. In addition to blood tests, your doctor may also order imaging studies, such as a chest X-ray, to check for any signs of pneumonia, a common complication associated with tularemia.
Treatment for tularemia typically requires the use of antibiotics, which can be administered either through injections or orally, depending on the severity of the infection. Commonly prescribed antibiotics might include streptomycin or doxycycline, which are effective against the bacteria. It’s essential to start treatment promptly to reduce the risk of complications. If the infection leads to more severe issues, such as pneumonia or meningitis, additional treatment and management for those specific conditions will be necessary.
Although most individuals who have contracted tularemia develop immunity to the disease, it is important to note that some people may experience recurrent infections. Therefore, maintaining awareness of potential exposure to the bacteria, especially in certain environments where tularemia is endemic, is critical for prevention in at-risk populations. Take precautions in areas where the disease is prevalent, and consult with your healthcare provider if you suspect you have symptoms of tularemia to ensure timely diagnosis and effective treatment.
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