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PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — Seven cases of a rare infectious disease that humans can catch from animals and insects have been reported in western South Dakota since June, state health officials said Tuesday.
The South Dakota Department of Health confirmed the cases of tularemia, sometimes called rabbit fever, have been reported in the area of the Black Hills. Six of the seven patients were adults over the age of 50, and one was a child under 5.
"Tularemia is a fairly uncommon but potentially severe disease that can be fatal," state epidemiologist Lon Kightlinger said in a statement. "People can be exposed when they come in contact with infected insects and animals, particularly rabbits, rodents and cats."
Tularemia symptoms in humans vary depending on how the infection is acquired. They include swelling of the lymph nodes, and in severe cases, fever and a pneumonia-like illness that can be fatal. An ulcer may appear where the bacteria entered the skin.
Five of the seven people diagnosed with the disease were hospitalized. Kightlinger said one of the ill individuals had direct contact with a pet cat that tested positive for tularemia.
Health officials are encouraging people to use insect repellants while outdoors with animals and to take precautions, including wearing gloves and double-bagging when handling and disposing of dead animals.
Animal owners, particularly cat owners, should contact their veterinarian if they notice any unusual signs.
"Especially during this season of camping and outdoor recreation, people, including Rally-goers, should avoid or take special precautions with rabbits, prairie dogs, gophers and voles," Kightlinger said, referring to the weeklong Sturgis Motorcycle Rally that begins Monday.
Cases of tularemia have also been reported in neighboring states including Nebraska, Wyoming and North Dakota, where a squirrel and two primates at two zoos also were confirmed to have the disease.
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