Press Release: Caution Urged After Tularemia Case in Illinois
Illinois residents and pet owners are advised to exercise caution following the recent diagnosis of tularemia in a dead rabbit found in Tuscola, approximately 25 miles south of Champaign. The Douglas County Health Department confirmed the diagnosis after testing the animal.
In addition, a concerning squirrel die-off in the Urbana area has resulted in at least one case testing positive for the bacteria Francisella tularensis, which is prevalent in wild animals like rodents and rabbits. This bacterium poses a health risk to both humans and pets, including cats and dogs.
Transmission occurs primarily through contact with infected animals or bites from ticks and fleas. Symptoms in humans may vary from skin ulcers and swollen lymph nodes to fever, chills, and joint pain.
Precautionary measures include using insect repellent, wearing gloves when handling sick or dead wildlife, and avoiding mowing over deceased animals, as this can aerosolize the bacteria. Pet owners should keep their pets supervised and ensure they are treated for ticks and fleas.
Residents are encouraged to report any unusual animal die-offs to local animal control to help monitor the situation closely.
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