Tularemia is a zoonosis, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. Photo: pexels
Tularemia is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis.
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It is a zoonosis, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans, usually through insect bites (such as ticks and mosquitoes), contact with infected animals, or exposure to contaminated environments.
The signs and symptoms of Tularemia vary depending on the route of infection but may include fever, fatigue, body aches, headache, and an ulcer on the skin at the site of infection. Other forms of the disease may affect the eyes, lungs, or lymphatic system.
Tularemia is more common in certain geographical regions with colder climates, especially in North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Scandinavia. It is not a common disease in humans but can be severe, especially if untreated.
Treatment for Tularemia usually involves antibiotics. Strains of Francisella tularensis may be resistant to certain types of antibiotics, so treatment should be based on specific medical guidance.
Preventive measures include avoiding insect bites, using gloves and other protections when handling wild animals, or engaging in outdoor activities in areas where Tularemia is known to occur.
The disease is also of interest in biodefense, as the bacterium could potentially be used as a biological weapon.
