Larimer County Reports 1 Tularemia-Positive Rabbit, Urges Outdoor Precautions

3 articles · Updated · Loveland Reporter-Herald · Jun 9

A dead rabbit found in a southwest Berthoud neighborhood tested positive for Tularemia, prompting Larimer County health officials to alert residents across the region.
Tularemia — or rabbit fever — is a rare but potentially serious bacterial infection that can spread to humans through tick and deer fly bites, contact with sick or dead animals, or contaminated soil, water or vegetation.
Seven human tularemia cases have been recorded in Larimer County since 2020, though officials said early diagnosis allows the infection to be treated effectively with antibiotics.
Residents are being told to use insect repellent, check for ticks, wear gloves while gardening or handling dead animals, and keep children and pets away from wildlife.
The county, where tularemia is endemic, also asked people to report clusters of 3 or more dead animals in the same area within 2 weeks, especially rabbits or rodents.