Tularemia, widely known as Rabbit Fever is extremely rare in Nebraska. That's why health officials in Grand Island are concerned after two separate cases turned up in less than two weeks.

"It's so uncommon that in the state we would see three or four in a year so 2 in 2 weeks is important," says Central District Health Department nurse Michelle Ellermeier.

Rabbits and ticks are the typical carriers of the disease but it can be spread to other animals and humans through direct contact with an infected animal or it's nest.
If treated quickly the bacteria infection can be eliminated in a few days, but the correct diagnosis can be difficult.

"Sometimes the first symptoms you see is what you think was the flu, you feel sick, chilled sore throat, runny nose and diarrhea," says Ellermeier.

You may also experience swollen glands and if infected by a bite or scratch severe swelling and soreness.
The disease can be deadly if left unchecked. Without proper antibiotics it kills one in twenty humans. Just as rare in pets the disease can be even deadlier.

"Hopefully this is just a blip on the radar and we don't see too much more of this because if you're not on the right antibiotic it won't respond and it's definitely fatal," says Veterinarian Dr. James Kimbrough of the Family Animal Clinic.

Health officials say if diagnosed and treated properly the disease will only be deadly for less than one percent of the population.

Prevention can be difficult, the best thing is to stay away from wild rabbits and keep a close eye on pets.

If you suspect rabbit fever in you or an animal be sure to bring up the possibility with your doctor or veterinarian.

Symptoms of tularemia include: Fever, chills, muscle ache, coughing, soreness, swollen glands, and diarrhea.

If scratched or bitten symptoms could include a skin ulcer with swelling and soreness of the area.