'Rabbit fever' cases rising in US as CDC warns of zoonotic bacterial disease

Cases of tularemia, also known as "rabbit fever," are on the rise in the U.S., according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

"Increased reporting of probable cases might be associated with an actual increase in human infection, improved tularemia detection or both," the report states.

"The traditional method of confirming cases has historically been via growth in culture and antibody testing," he told Fox News Digital. 

"However, newer detection methods, such as PCR testing, are likely a major contributor to the increase in reported cases."

Symptoms of tularemia can vary depending on the type of disease.

"Depending on the location of the infected bit or scratch, people can develop localized lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes) and a cutaneous ulcer at the infection site," he said. 

"Other manifestations include conjuctivitis, pneumonia and potentially even bloodstream infections."

The death rate from the disease is typically low, less than 2%, but the CDC noted that it can be as high as 24% in rare, severe cases.

"The infection is absolutely dangerous and potentially life-threatening if not treated with appropriate antibiotics," said Ruderfer.

The general population is not at an "obvious" risk for infection unless they come into physical contact with an infected rabbit, tick or deer fly, the expert noted. 

"Many factors might contribute to the higher risk for tularemia in this population, including the concentration of Native American reservations in central states and sociocultural or occupational activities that might increase contact with infected wildlife or arthropods," the CDC wrote.