The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has confirmed cases of tularemia in wild rabbits in Tippecanoe County. Since April, more than 20 rabbits have been found dead in this area.

Tularemia is a disease that can affect wildlife, domestic animals, and humans. This disease is typically transmitted through tick or deerfly bites, direct contact with infected animals, or by exposure to contaminated water and air. Rabbits and rodents are most affected by this disease.

Signs of tularemia in rabbits can include lethargy, incoordination, staggering gaits, or spasms. Wildlife displaying signs of tularemia will usually die within two to 10 days. To help monitor this outbreak, DNR asks the public to report any rabbits found dead or displaying signs of tularemia at on.IN.gov/sickwildlife.

“Tularemia is present throughout North America,” said Michelle Benavidez Westrich, Fish & Wildlife health supervisor, “so it is not surprising to see mortality events such as this happen in our state.”

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tularemia is a potentially serious disease in humans. However, infections in humans are not contagious and most infections can be treated with antibiotics. No humans or domestic animals have been affected by the current rabbit mortality event in Tippecanoe County. If you have questions or concerns about human health, contact your local health department for guidance. For questions about domestic animal health, contact your veterinarian.

You can take the following steps to avoid tularemia transmission:

• Always wear appropriate insect repellant when spending time outdoors.
• Check for ticks after spending time outdoors and remove any ticks promptly.
• Prevent your pets from interacting with dead or living wildlife.
• Avoid handling dead animals. If absolutely necessary, wear disposable gloves, double-bag the carcass, and dispose of it in a secure trash receptacle.

To view more DNR news releases, please see dnr.IN.gov.