Fourth case of rabbit fever confirmed on Long Island, health officials warn
FOX Weather • • health
Key Points:
- Suffolk County, Long Island, has confirmed a fourth case of tularemia, also known as rabbit fever, prompting health officials to advise the public to take precautions against the disease.
- Tularemia is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis and is typically transmitted to humans through tick or deer fly bites, though it primarily affects wildlife such as rabbits and rodents.
- The disease is not contagious between people, and symptoms can include high fever, skin ulcers, swollen lymph nodes, and severe lung infections; early treatment with antibiotics is usually effective.
- Cases tend to occur between May and September, with 200 to 300 reported annually in the U.S., and prevention measures include using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, promptly removing ticks, avoiding contact with dead animals, and not drinking untreated water.
- Health officials emphasize awareness of symptoms and caution during outdoor activities, especially for those handling wildlife or spending time in tick-prone areas.
