Tularemia is a bacteria that can be very serious in both
animals and humans. It is found throughout the United States . This particular
condition is important because it can be fatal to both animals and people.
The most common reservoir for the bacteria that causes
Tularemia is rodents. People and other animals can contract it from eating
affected animals. For this reason outdoor cats that like to hunt rabbits seem
to be among the most highly affected. It is also possible to obtain the
bacteria from ticks. Using insect repellants whenever outdoors can help
minimize exposure. Tularemia can be contracted from drinking contaminated water
sources but is not as common. Another possibility is when coming in contact
with bodily fluids or the meat of an animal that has Tularemia. An important
exposure to point out for people is when mowing the lawn and possibly running
over a carcass. People are then easily exposed to the bacteria that would be
spread readily from the mower.
Symptoms are very generalized by can come on quickly. They
typically begin anywhere from 2-7 days after exposure. Without immediate
treatment is possible for this condition to become fatal in both humans and our
pets. Typically those affected will become lethargic (lack of energy), they
could have enlarged lymph nodes or oral ulceration. Sometimes blood work
abnormalities would indicate a low red blood cell and white blood cell count.
This can make diagnosis sometimes difficult as many bacterial infections show
an increase in white blood cells. Definitive diagnosis can be done through a
lab culturing samples but caution needs to be taken when handling any person or
animal that is suspected to have Tularemia.
Treatment consists of aggressive antibiotic therapy. Some
individuals may also need supportive care which includes fluids and even
hospitalization to monitor their progress. With aggressive and timely treatment
it is possible to overcome this bacteria. Diagnosis can sometimes be very
challenging and the major reason why treatment is delayed.
For more information about tularemia you can visit the CDC
website here.
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