Tularemia Cases in Suffolk County Highlight Tick-Borne Disease Concerns
Tularemia, a bacterial infection caused by Francisella tularensis, has been confirmed four times in Suffolk County, New York, this year. The disease, also known as 'rabbit fever,' primarily affects wild animals but can be transmitted to humans through tick and deer fly bites, or contact with infected animals. Symptoms vary based on the infection route, potentially causing skin lesions, throat infections, or pneumonia-like illness. The New York State Department of Health reports that tularemia is treatable with antibiotics like doxycycline. Preventative measures include using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing outdoors, and checking for ticks after outdoor activities. The New York City health department monitors for tularemia but has not detected it in city ticks. 
