Tularemia FAQ
What is Tularemia?
Tularemia, also known as Rabbit Fever, is a rare infectious disease caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis.
What are the symptoms of Rabbit Fever?
Symptoms may include sudden fever, chills, headaches, muscle aches, joint pain, dry cough, and progressive weakness.
How is Tularemia transmitted?
Tularemia can be transmitted to humans through insect bites, contact with infected animals, ingestion of contaminated water, or inhalation of bacteria.
Is Rabbit Fever contagious?
Tularemia is not directly contagious from person to person.
How is Tularemia diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms and confirmed by specific laboratory tests.
What is the treatment for Rabbit Fever?
Antibiotics, such as Streptomycin, Gentamicin, Doxycycline, or Ciprofloxacin, are commonly used to treat Tularemia.
Can Tularemia be prevented?
Preventive measures include wearing gloves when handling animals, using insect repellent, and avoiding drinking untreated water from streams or rivers.
Is there a vaccine for Rabbit Fever?
There is currently no vaccine available for Tularemia in the UK.
Can pets transmit Tularemia to humans?
Yes, pets can become infected with Tularemia and may transmit the disease to humans through bites or scratches.
What should I do if I suspect Tularemia infection?
Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you or your pet has been exposed to the bacterium that causes Tularemia.
How long does it take for Tularemia symptoms to appear?
Symptoms may appear within 3 to 5 days after exposure, but the incubation period can range from 1 to 21 days.
Can Tularemia cause serious complications?
In severe cases, Tularemia can affect the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing and chest pain.
Is Tularemia common in the UK?
Tularemia is considered rare in the UK, with only a small number of cases reported each year.
Can you get Tularemia from consuming undercooked meat?
Although possible, cases of Tularemia from consuming undercooked meat are rare in the UK.
Are there any long-term effects of Tularemia?
Most individuals recover completely with prompt antibiotic treatment, but some may experience lingering fatigue or weakness.
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