Key Takeaway:
- Colorado confirmed tularemia in a dead rabbit, signaling potential spread in Larimer County.
- The rare disease can infect humans through ticks, deer flies, infected animals, and contaminated dust.
- Health officials urge residents to use insect repellent, check for ticks, and avoid contact with wild animals
A rare bacterial disease linked to rabbits, ticks, and other wildlife has been confirmed in northern Colorado, prompting health officials to warn residents to take precautions as outdoor activity increases during the summer months.
Larimer County health officials announced June 9 that tularemia was detected in a dead rabbit. Officials said the disease is likely present in other parts of the county and could pose a risk to humans through insect bites, contact with infected animals, and exposure to contaminated dust.
Officials warn residents to take preventive measures
Paul Mayer, medical officer for the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment, urged residents to reduce their risk of infection while spending time outdoors.
“Because tularemia is present in Larimer County, it’s important to take steps to avoid infection,” Mayer said in a statement.
Mayer advised people to use insect repellent, check for ticks after outdoor activities, and keep children and pets away from wild animals, including rabbits and squirrels.
Health officials said the risk of human infection remains low, but warmer weather and increased outdoor recreation can increase exposure to ticks, biting flies, and infected wildlife.
Disease spreads through animals, insects, and dust
Tularemia is caused by bacteria commonly found in rabbits, rodents, and other small mammals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Humans can become infected through direct contact with infected animal tissue, bites from ticks or deer flies, inhaling contaminated dust, or consuming contaminated water. The disease can cause fever, skin ulcers, swollen lymph nodes, and respiratory symptoms. In severe cases, it can lead to serious illness if left untreated.
The CDC says tularemia is uncommon but can occur throughout the United States, particularly in areas where infected wildlife and insect vectors are present.
Human cases remain uncommon nationwide
Tularemia infections in humans are relatively rare. CDC data show 196 human cases were reported nationwide in 2023.
The disease was more common in the United States during the mid-20th century, when annual case counts approached 1,000. Improvements in public health measures, disease surveillance, and awareness have contributed to lower infection rates in recent decades.
Colorado health officials outlined several steps residents can take to reduce exposure. They recommend wearing gloves while gardening, washing hands before eating or touching the face, using Environmental Protection Agency-registered insect repellents containing ingredients such as DEET or picaridin, and wearing a dust mask when mowing lawns, digging soil, or using leaf blowers.
Officials also advised wearing shoes outdoors, especially in areas where dead animals may be present, and avoiding direct contact with wild animals.
Health authorities said continued vigilance is important during the summer season, when opportunities for exposure to infected animals and insects are highest.
