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Tularemia Cases See Surge Across the U.S., Including in Arkansas
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A recent report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights a significant increase in tularemia cases nationwide, with Arkansas among the states reporting infections.
Tularemia, commonly known as rabbit fever, is a bacterial infection caused by Francisella tularensis. The disease can be transmitted through bites from arthropods, contact with infected animals, or by consuming contaminated water or aerosols. Symptoms of tularemia include skin ulcers, swollen lymph nodes, and pneumonia.
The CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report revealed that 47 states reported 2,462 tularemia cases between 2011 and 2022—a 56% rise compared to the 2001–2010 period. Notably, Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma accounted for half of the total cases reported.
The data also highlighted demographic trends, with the highest infection rates observed among children aged 5–9, older men, and individuals from the American Indian or Alaska Native communities.
Health officials emphasized preventive measures to avoid contracting tularemia, including the use of EPA-registered insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, promptly removing ticks, and using gloves when handling wild animals.
