What is Rabbit Fever and Why is it Becoming an Issue in The U.S.?
The name “rabbit fever” may sound adorable, but it is actually a rather serious issue sweeping across the U.S.
What Is Rabbit Fever?
Rabbit fever is technically known as a disease called tularemia. The CDC says it is typically caused by bacteria found in small animals such as rodents and rabbits.
Even if you’ve never handled a rabbit, you’re still very much at risk of getting rabbit fever. According to the CDC, the disease can be spread through insect bites, consuming contaminated water or food, or inhaling bacteria that is hanging around in the air.
READ MORE: Complaints of ‘Metal Wire’ In Chicken Nuggets Lead To Huge Recall
The symptoms that come along with rabbit fever are not pleasant. They include:
- Skin ulcers
- Swollen lymph glands
- Inflamed eyes
- Sore throat
- Mouth sores
- Diarrhea
- Pneumonia
That’s just if you get it from get it via bug bite. Inhaling the bacteria also brings along the chance of a fever and muscle pains.
Where Is Rabbit Fever Prevalent In The U.S.?
The CDC has described rabbit fever as a “rural disease.” Sadly, that doesn’t mean it has been limited to less populated areas. To date, rabbit fever has been discovered in every U.S. state with the exception of Hawaii.
READ MORE: What It Means If You Suddenly Find A Red Flag In Your Yard
The most recent hot spot for rabbit fever cases has been in Central Illinois. Champaign-based WCIA reported this week that the Wildlife Medical Clinic at the University of Illinois has released data showing an increase in rabbit fever cases.
Hand holding dish with bacteria
“Clinic officials urge pet owners to keep pets away from sick, injured or dead wildlife,” WCIA said in its report. “Additionally, they remind people to wear protective equipment like gloves, eye protection and an N95 mask if possible, for removing injured animals.”
Guidance from the CDC says local health departments should be notified immediately if there is confirmation of rabbit fever.
LOOK: Here are the states where you are most likely to hit an animal
Hitting an animal while driving is a frightening experience, and this list ranks all 50 states in order of the likelihood of such incidents happening, in addition to providing tips on how to avoid them.
Gallery Credit: Dom DiFurio & Jacob Osborn
LOOK: Stunning animal photos from around the world
From grazing Tibetan antelope to migrating monarch butterflies, these 50 photos of wildlife around the world capture the staggering grace of the animal kingdom. The forthcoming gallery runs sequentially from air to land to water, and focuses on birds, land mammals, aquatic life, and insects as they work in pairs or groups, or sometimes all on their own.
Gallery Credit: Nicole Caldwell
