tularensis bacteria can be transmitted to humans via the skin when handling infected animal tissue. In particular, this can occur when hunting or skinning infected rabbits, muskrats, prairie dogs and other rodents. Many other animals have also been known to become ill with tularemia.
Is tularemia contagious from person to person?
Tularemia is not known to be spread from person to person. People who have tularemia do not need to be isolated. People who have been exposed to the tularemia bacteria should be treated as soon as possible. The disease can be fatal if it is not treated with the right antibiotics.
What is the best way to prevent tularemia?
How can tularemia be prevented?
- Use insect repellants containing picaridin, DEET, or IR3535.
- Avoid insect bites by wearing long pants, long sleeves, and socks to cover skin.
- Avoid drinking untreated surface water that might be contaminated.
- Check lawns or grassy areas for sick or dead animals before mowing the lawn.
