Three Hunters in Bavaria Contract Tularemia, Known as 'Rabbit Fever'

Cases of the zoonotic bacterial infection have risen in recent years, with most infections traced to contact with infected animals or their byproducts.

• Three hunters in the Donau-Ries district of Bavaria were confirmed to have contracted tularemia, likely through handling infected hares.
• Tularemia, caused by the bacterium *Francisella tularensis*, can infect humans through contact with infected animals, consumption of undercooked meat, insect bites, or inhalation of contaminated particles.
• Symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, and, in severe cases, pneumonia; untreated infections can be fatal, though antibiotics are effective for treatment.
• The Robert Koch Institute reports a nationwide rise in tularemia cases, with over 180 infections this year, including 63 in Bavaria, attributed to increased awareness and environmental factors.
• Authorities advise avoiding contact with sick or dead animals, wearing protective gear when handling wildlife, and thoroughly cooking wild game to prevent infection.

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