Tularemia, or “rabbit fever,” is on the rise in the U.S., according to a CDC report. The disease is caused by Francisella tularensis, which typically infects rabbits, hares, and rodents but can spread to humans through bites from ticks or deer flies, contact with infected animals, or exposure to contaminated water or aerosols.

Though rare, tularemia cases have increased by 56% compared to the previous decade. Dr. Daniel Ruderfer suggests that improved detection methods, like PCR testing, are largely responsible for the rise in reported cases.

Symptoms can vary, including chills, headaches, sore throat, fatigue, and potentially more severe issues like pneumonia or bloodstream infections. While tularemia is usually treatable with antibiotics and has a low fatality rate, it can be deadly in severe cases.

At higher risk are children, older men, Native Americans, and people living in the central U.S. The general public is not at high risk unless they come into direct contact with infected animals or insects. Those who hunt or interact with wildlife should seek medical attention if symptoms develop.