What is ‘rabbit fever?’ Health officials report 3 probable cases

Key Points:

• Suffolk County Department of Health reported three probable cases of tularemia, a rare bacterial infection also known as rabbit fever, which is transmitted mainly through tick or fly bites from infected animals.
• Tularemia symptoms include high fever, swollen lymph nodes, body aches, tiredness, and a sore at the bite site, with onset typically within 3 to 5 days; the infection can lead to sepsis but is treatable with antibiotics such as streptomycin and gentamicin.
• Cases of tularemia in Suffolk County have been low but gradually increasing, with four cases in 2024, three in 2023, and one in 2022; nationwide cases have also been rising, typically occurring between May and September.
• To prevent tick bites and tularemia, health officials recommend wearing protective clothing, avoiding dense woods, using tick repellents, performing thorough body checks after outdoor activities, and properly handling game meat by using gloves and cooking it thoroughly.
• If a tick bite is suspected or symptoms develop, individuals should promptly remove ticks with tweezers, disinfect the area, monitor for rashes or fever, and seek medical attention if symptoms arise.