Colorado: Human tularemia case reported in Jefferson County
Health officials in Jefferson County, Colorado, in the center of the state adjacent to Denver, report a human tularemia case in a Wheat Ridge resident.
This is the first positive human case of tularemia in Jefferson County and Colorado in 2024.
Tularemia is a bacterial disease associated with animals such as rodents and rabbits, as well as insects such as ticks and deerflies. It can be transmitted to humans through insects, infected animals, contaminated water or food and airborne bacteria.
"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 (JCPH). "Prompt treatment with antibiotics is effective, so early diagnosis and medical attention are crucial."
Symptoms include fever, non-healing skin ulcer at the site of infection and swollen and painful lymph glands. If the infection is caused by ingesting contaminated food or water, the symptoms include a sore throat, mouth sores, abdominal pain and diarrhea. If bacteria are inhaled, pneumonia can develop with symptoms including fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, dry cough and progressive weakness.
So far in 2024, 77 human tularemia cases have been reported in 22 states, with Missouri reporting the most cases with 23.
In 2023, 9 human tularemia cases were reported in Colorado.
JCPH recommends residents take steps to prevent exposure:
Use insect repellent during all outdoor activity.
Avoid all contact with wild rodents.
Do not feed or entice any rodent or rabbit into your yard or patio.
Eliminate piles of lumber, trash and weeds around your home.
Avoid touching sick or dead animals or wear gloves if necessary.
Do not mow over dead animals.
Do not drink untreated surface water (lakes, ponds, rivers).
Be sure to cook meat thoroughly before eating.
Keep pets on a leash while in areas where contact with wildlife is possible.
Consult veterinarian for any pet interaction.
Provide immediate veterinary care for sick pets and do not handle sick pets without using hand and face protection.
Tularemia can be treated successfully and cured. See a physician if you experience any symptoms associated with tularemia after being in areas where contact with wildlife is possible.