Be Careful Handling Wildlife: The Threat of Rabbit Fever Looms in Lower Saxony
- Mammals, Including Humans, Susceptible to Rabbit Pest Issues
Heads up, critter enthusiasts! The regions of Hameln-Pyrmont and Lower Saxony are urging caution when dealing with wildlife due to the emergence of rabbit fever, also known as tularemia. Though cases in Lower Saxony have been relatively isolated as compared to its neighbor, Hesse, this disease is notorious for its high contagion rate and can potentially be transmitted to humans, too.
In Hameln-Pyrmont district, two wild rabbits have met their end due to this disease in the recent past. Tularemia is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis, primarily affecting wild rabbits in Germany but also spreading to rabbits, rodents, wild boars, and carnivores [1]. In rabbits and hares, tularemia often leads to fatalities.
A flu-like plague for humans
Infected humans might experience a range of symptoms similar to the flu, including fever, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, muscle aches, diarrhea, and vomiting, a few days after exposure. Open wounds, even the tiniest ones, could culminate in infections. If signs and symptoms appear post-contact with animals that may be infected, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider, especially if there's fever involved [2].
Rest assured, human-to-human transmission isn't known, so no need to isolate yourself.
Safeguarding yourself from encounters with wildlife
It's crucial to maintain a distance from wildlife, especially if they show signs of sickness or have perished. Ingestion of potentially contaminated meat should be avoided, and it's advisable to thoroughly cook it before consumption as a safety measure [3]. Furthermore, wear disposable gloves and a face mask while handling wildlife to minimize the risk [3]. Tick bites can also transmit the bacterial disease, so remember to use insect repellents, wear protective clothing, and perform regular tick checks [3]. Lastly, make sure to practice good hygiene by washing hands thoroughly after handling wildlife or their environments [2].
If you require assistance with wildlife handling, consider enlisting the help of experienced wildlife handlers who can provide guidance and support [4]. Educate yourself about tularemia symptoms in both humans and animals, including fever, skin ulcers, or swollen lymph nodes [4].
Lastly, stay vigilant and be aware of local regulations and guidelines surrounding disease management and wildlife handling in Lower Saxony by consulting local health authorities [5]. Report any sick wildlife to the relevant wildlife or veterinary services immediately [5]. If you suspect exposure or experience symptoms after handling wildlife, prompt medical attention is vital [5].
References:1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Tularemia. https://www.cdc.gov/tularemia/about/index.html2. United Kingdom Health Security Agency. (2021). Tularemia. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/tularemia3. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. (2017). Tularemia - risk assessment. https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/publications-resources/tularemia-risk-assessment4. World Health Organization. (n.d.). Tularemia. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/tularemia5. Robert Koch Institute. (2021). Tularemia. https://www.rki.de/SharedDocs/Fachesarp/ downloads/DE/Krankheiten/ausland/ernaehrung_futter/tulo.pdf?__blob=publicationFile&v=3
- The community policy in Hameln-Pyrmont district advises caution when handling wildlife due to the presence of rabbit fever, or tularemia.
- Tularemis, a health concern, can cause a flu-like illness in humans, with symptoms including fever, swollen lymph nodes, and gastrointestinal disturbances.
- To prevent tularemia infection in the community of Lower Saxony, it's essential to avoid contact with sick or dead wildlife, properly cook wild game before consumption, and practice good hygiene such as regular hand washing.
