A rare bacterial disease has surged by 56% in the United States over the past decade, with central states bearing the brunt of the outbreak. This recent data unveils a concerning surge in tularemia cases across the central states, demanding immediate public awareness and preventive measures.
Significant Rise in Tularemia Cases
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report a 56% increase in tularemia cases over the past decade. The disease, caused by the Francisella tularensis bacteria, predominantly affects individuals through contact with infected animals or insect bites. Consuming contaminated water and aerosols also poses risks.
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Tularemia can manifest severe symptoms, particularly concerning specific demographics such as children, older adults, and specific ethnic groups, including American Indian or Alaska Native persons. The CDC underscores the necessity of prevention strategies like educational outreach and insect preventive measures.
CDC report shows increase in tularemia cases in US, some reported in Arkansas https://t.co/xnENxFcd35 pic.twitter.com/NgVQx8pmaZ
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Approximately 2,462 cases were documented in 47 states between 2011 and 2022. Central states contributed to half of these cases, notably Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. While the disease is treatable with antibiotics, the CDC warns that different bacterial phenotypes can cause the case fatality rate to rise as high as 24%.
Higher Risk for Certain Groups
The CDC identifies children aged 5-9, older men, and American Indian or Alaska Native communities as the most susceptible groups. These demographics are impacted more than others, with incidence rates significantly higher compared to white individuals.
“During 2011–2022, 47 states reported 2,462 tularemia cases (0.064 per 100,000 population), representing a 56% increase in incidence compared with 2001–2010,” the agency said in a Jan. 2 report. “Incidence was highest among children aged 5–9 years, older men, and American Indian or Alaska Native persons, among whom incidence was approximately five times that among White persons.”
Native American communities, concentrated geographically in high-prevalence areas and actively engaging in activities that may lead to animal contact, face heightened risks. Educational efforts tailored to these communities may mitigate the impact of tularemia.
Prevention and Treatment Recommendations
The CDC emphasizes prevention through protective clothing, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved insect repellents, and avoiding sick or dead animals. Public education on these strategies is essential for reducing the spread of the disease.
“Reducing tularemia incidence will require tailored prevention education,” the report said. “Mitigating morbidity and mortality will require health care provider education, particularly among providers serving tribal populations, regarding early and accurate diagnosis and treatment.”
Healthcare provider training remains crucial in facilitating early diagnosis and treatment, especially given tularemia’s varying symptoms based on the infection route. The CDC continues to advocate for increased awareness and proactive healthcare engagement to tackle this growing public health issue.