Tularemia I (Rabbit/Ever)

Tularemia I (Rabbit/Ever) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. It is a zoonotic disease that is most often transmitted to humans from hares and rodents. This is why it is also called "rabbit fever". F. tularensis is a highly contagious pathogen and is distributed throughout the northern hemisphere.

There are several subspecies of F. tularensis. Subspecies tularensis (also known as subspecies type A) is the most virulent. This subspecies is often associated with the disease in hares.

Tularemia can be transmitted in a variety of ways, including tick and insect bites, contact with infected animals, water or soil, and airborne transmission. In humans, the disease manifests itself as fever, swollen lymph nodes, pneumonia and skin ulcers. If left untreated, tularemia can lead to serious complications and even death.

Serological tests and PCR are used for diagnosis. Antibiotics such as gentamicin, ciprofloxacin and doxycycline are used for treatment. A vaccine against tularemia has been developed but is not currently widely used.

Due to the high virulence of F. tularensis, the tularensis subspecies has been considered as a potential biological warfare agent. Tularemia remains a dangerous wildlife disease that requires increased attention for control and prevention.