2024 veterinary news in review: #20
dvm360 is counting down the Top 20 news stories and articles from 2024 with this series of spotlights
The dvm360 editorial team is counting down our Top 20 news stories and articles of the year, from January 1, 2024, to November 15, 2024. Rank was determined by measurable audience interest and engagement.
A spotlight is shining on 1 article each day through New Year’s Eve, when the No. 1 dvm360 story of the year will be shared. The following article is No. 20 on this list:
Case of tularemia reported in Colorado
written by Abi Bautista-Alejandre, Assistant Editor
Originally published July 10, 2024
Colorado public health officials announced the detection of the state’s first human case of tularemia in 2024, in a resident of Wheat Ridge, Colorado.1 The disease mainly affects rural areas, but has been detected nationwide, save for Hawaii.2
Tularemia is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis and is commonly found in wildlife animals.2 The infection is most frequent in rodents, rabbits, and hares, which often experience significant mortality during outbreaks.3 It is also found in insects like ticks and deer flies. Transmission to humans can occur through bites of infected insects, skin contact with infected animals, drinking or eating contaminated water or food, or by inhaling airborne bacteria through contaminated aerosols or agricultural and landscaping dust.1,3
Approximately 200 human cases of tularemia are reported annually in the United States, with most cases being found in western and south-central states.2 In 2023, 9 human cases were reported in Colorado.4
"While tularemia is rare, it is important for residents to be aware of the symptoms and take preventive measures," said Rachel Reichardt, environmental health specialist at Jefferson County Public Health, in a news release.1 "Prompt treatment with antibiotics is effective, so early diagnosis and medical attention are crucial."
Symptoms of tularemia include fever, non-healing skin ulcers at the infection site, swollen and painful lymph glands, inflamed eyes, sore throat, mouth sores, diarrhea, or pneumonia. In cases where the infection is due to contaminated food or water ingestion, symptoms may consist of a sore throat, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Inhalation of F tularensis can lead to pneumonia, which can cause symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, dry cough, and progressive weakness.1
For information about tularemia infection in pets, references, and more, continue reading the full article: https://www.dvm360.com/view/case-of-tularemia-reported-in-colorado
