What to know about 'rabbit fever' amid 3 probable cases reported in New York - ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos

Core Impact Points

• Tularemia, also known as 'rabbit fever,' is a rare but potentially deadly disease caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis.
• The disease can be transmitted through tick bites, contaminated water, or contact with infected animals, such as rabbits, hares, and rodents.
• Symptoms of tularemia include fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and skin ulcers, and can be treated with antibiotics if caught early.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that tularemia is most commonly found in the western and northern United States, particularly in areas with high tick populations.
• Health officials are urging residents in affected areas to take precautions to prevent the spread of the disease, including wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and avoiding contact with wild animals.
• While tularemia is rare, it can be deadly if left untreated, and prompt medical attention is essential for effective treatment and recovery.