Tularemia

Description
  • Francisella tularensis bacteria transmitted in ticks
Location
  • North America, especially between the Rocky Mountains and the Mississippi River
Cause
  • Getting bitten by a tick
  • Drinking or eating contaminated food or improperly cooked game meat
  • Scratches or bites from infected animals
     
Symptoms
  • Sudden onset of high fever
  • Chills
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Fatigue
  • Followed by slow-healing sores or lesions at the site of entry of bacteria
  • Inflammation
  • Swelling of lymph nodes
     
Treatment
  • Seek medical attention from a physician
Prevention
  • Avoid tick-infested habitats during spring and early summer.
  • Use personal protection, such as wearing pants and shirts with long sleeves.
     
Other Facts
  • Most cases are acquired during the summer months and the middle of winter
  • Animal hosts include: rabbits, hares, rodents and birds