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Disease overviewNorthern Hemisphere

What is tularemia?

Tularemia is a potentially serious infection caused by Francisella tularensis that can spread through tick or deer-fly bites, animal contact, contaminated water or inhaled particles.

Reviewed by VuxLore® Knowledge Team For Everyone

Short answer

Tularemia is a potentially serious infection caused by Francisella tularensis that can spread through tick or deer-fly bites, animal contact, contaminated water or inhaled particles.

At a glance

The form of illness depends on the exposure route and may include fever, a skin ulcer, swollen lymph nodes, eye disease, sore throat or pneumonia.

Key takeaways

• Tick bites are only one transmission route.

• Tell clinicians about animal and landscaping exposure.

• Antibiotic treatment requires medical care.

Exposure history changes the picture

Rabbits, hares and rodents are important in the ecology of tularemia. Handling sick or dead wildlife and mowing over carcasses can create exposure apart from ticks.

Do not handle suspected material casually

Use prevention guidance and seek medical care for compatible illness. Laboratories need warning when tularemia is suspected because special procedures may be required.

Sources and further reading

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: About Tularemia

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Tickborne Diseases of the United States