Tularemia, also known as rabbit fever, is a rare but potentially severe zoonotic disease caused by the small, rod-shaped, non-motile bacterium Francisella tularensis. It typically manifests with painful swelling of lymph nodes and can affect various organs such as the lungs, skin, eyes, throat, and gastrointestinal tract, depending on the site of infection.

Humans can contract tularemia through various means, including contact with infected animals (such as rabbits and rodents), bites from vectors like deer flies and ticks, or exposure to contaminated food and water. Individuals with occupations, lifestyles, or hobbies that involve close contact with potentially infected animals are at higher risk. Immunocompromised individuals are also more susceptible. In severe cases, tularemia can lead to inflammation of any organ, including the brain and heart.

Common clinical signs and symptoms of tularemia include fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, skin lesions or ulcers, watery eyes, and shortness of breath. The specific manifestation and severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the site of infection.

Regardless of the form or site of infection, individuals diagnosed with tularemia require prompt antibiotic treatment.