LARIMER COUNTY, Colo. (WKRC) – Health officials in northern Colorado are warning residents to take precautions after a rare disease known as “rabbit fever” was detected in a dead rabbit.
The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment announced that tularemia was confirmed in a rabbit found in Berthoud, a community south of Fort Collins.
Tularemia is a rare but potentially serious bacterial infection that can spread from infected animals to humans through tick bites, contact with sick or dead animals, or exposure to contaminated soil, water or vegetation.
According to health officials, rabbits, rodents and ticks are among the most common carriers of the disease.
Symptoms can include fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and skin ulcers.
Health experts say tularemia can usually be treated successfully with antibiotics when diagnosed early.
The disease is considered endemic in Larimer County, meaning it is regularly present in the area. Since 2020, seven human cases have been reported in the county.
Officials recommend using insect repellent, checking for ticks after spending time outdoors, wearing gloves while gardening, and avoiding contact with wild animals, including rabbits and squirrels.
Residents are also encouraged to wear a mask when mowing, digging or using leaf blowers in dusty areas and to use gloves when handling dead animals.