What is Tularemia? Let's learn about this disease transmitted by animals.

We all love animals, right? Some people keep dogs and cats at home. Others love squirrels and birds in their gardens. Similarly, people who work in agriculture and plantations are constantly in contact with the soil. But did you know that sometimes we can get diseases from these animals, soil, and water? Today we are going to talk about such a rare but concerning disease. This is called tularemia.

Simply put, what is Tularemia?

Tularemia is a bacterial infection . It is caused by a type of bacteria called Francisella tularensis. It is not a common disease in humans, but it can spread to animals, especially small animals like rabbits and squirrels. For this reason, some people also call it "rabbit fever."

This bacteria is very resilient. It can survive for weeks in soil, water, and dead animals. That's why we can get it in so many ways. Although it is a contagious disease, it is not usually spread from person to person.

How does this disease spread to us?

There are several ways this disease can be transmitted. Let's see what they are.

• Insect bites: This disease can be transmitted by biting insects such as infected ticks or deer flies. This method is less common in Sri Lanka, but it is worth knowing.
• By touching infected animals: If you touch an animal that has the disease (for example, a rabbit, squirrel), especially if you touch the animal's skin, fur, or meat, the bacteria can enter the body even through a small break in the skin.
• By consuming contaminated food or water: There is a high chance of contracting the disease if you eat undercooked meat from an infected animal or drink water contaminated with the bacteria.
• Inhaling bacteria: This is a bit rare. While gardening, digging, or doing construction work, bacteria in the soil can mix with the air and inhale it, causing an infection in the lungs.

What are the symptoms of tularemia?

Symptoms can vary depending on how the bacteria entered the body. It usually takes between 3 and 5 days for symptoms to appear. But sometimes it can take up to two weeks.

The table below shows the main types of this disease and their associated symptoms.

Who is at higher risk of contracting this disease?

Although tularemia is a rare disease, some people are more likely to develop it.

• Farmers, veterinarians, plantation workers, and hunters: because they are constantly in contact with animals and soil.
• People with weakened immune systems: The bodies of people with diseases like diabetes, cancer, or those taking medications that suppress their immune system have a harder time fighting this bacteria.
• People who eat undercooked meat: The risk is higher if they eat meat from hunted animals, especially if it is not cooked properly.
• People living in rural and forested areas: Because these areas are more likely to be home to disease-carrying animals and insects.

How is the disease diagnosed and treated?

This disease can be a little difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are similar to those of other common illnesses. If you have symptoms like fever, swollen lymph nodes, and especially if you have recently been bitten by an insect, scratched by an animal, or touched by a wild animal, be sure to see your doctor and tell them about it.

Your doctor may perform several tests to confirm the diagnosis, including:

• Blood tests: Check for antibodies against the bacteria in the body.
• Biopsy: Taking a small piece of tissue from a skin lesion or swelling for examination.
• Pus sample testing: Testing pus or other body fluids coming from a wound.
• Chest X-ray: To see if the lungs are affected.

It is very important to take the antibiotics prescribed by your doctor exactly for the full duration. The sooner you start treatment, the faster you can cure the disease without complications.

What should we do to protect ourselves from this disease?

The best thing to do is to stay safe from this disease. Follow these simple steps.

• Do not touch wild animals with your bare hands, especially animals that appear sick or dead.
• When working in the fields or walking in the forest, wear clothes that cover your arms and legs. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and shoes.
• Use insect repellents to protect yourself from insects.
• Make sure to properly treat your pets (dogs, cats) to protect them from ticks . Also, be aware of whether they are exposed to wild animals outside.
• When drinking water, drink only clean, safe water. Do not drink water from suspicious sources.
• Eat meats, especially game, thoroughly cooked.
• If you suspect you have been exposed to this disease, see a doctor immediately.

Tularemia, animal fever, rabbit fever, bacterial infection, Francisella tularensis, insect bites, zoonotic diseases