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The first case of human tularemia in Pueblo County (also known as rabbit fever) in 2018 is an adult human.
"Residents of Pueblo are warned that bacteria causing tularemia may be present in some mammals, especially rabbits, rodents and hares, and on the soil where these animals may be active," said Jody Carrillo, director of Health and Environment Division. "Cases of human tularemia are rare, but people who have been exposed to contaminated soil, drink contaminated water or inhale bacteria may develop the disease."
Tularemia can spread through soil contaminated with faeces or urine from sick animals, such as rabbits, and bacteria causing tularemia can vaporize and be inhaled when a person shuts down leaves or leaves the earth.
"Because tularemia is known to occur in Pueblo County, precautions should always be taken to prevent Tularemia infection, especially when mowing weeds or grass," said Carrillo.
The infection can also come from the bite of infected insects (most commonly ticks and deer flies), as well as exposure to soil and vegetation. Hunters who are pelting animals without gloves and exposed to open wound blood are also at risk.
Typical signs of infection in humans include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, chest pain and coughing. Tularemia can be treated effectively with antibiotics. Those who experience any of these symptoms are encouraged to consult a doctor immediately.
Dogs and cats can also contract tularaemia by eating rabbits or other infected rodents and biting ticks and deer. If your pet has symptoms of illness, including fever, runny nose, eyes, and skin lesions, give promptly to a veterinarian. Tularemia is easily treated if diagnosed early in dogs and cats.
To reduce your risk of contracting the disease, avoid handling wildlife. wear an insect repellent containing DEET on the outside; use a dust mask to mow or do yard work; do not go barefoot or wear sandals during gardening, mowing or landscaping; wear gloves when gardening or landscaping and wash hands after these activities; and do not drink unpurified water from streams or lakes or allow your pets to drink surface water.
If a dead animal needs to be moved, avoid direct contact with the carcass and use a long-handled shovel to pick up the carcass. Place the carcass in a garbage bag and throw it in an outdoor bin. Wash your hands with soap and water afterwards.
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