Tularemia cases rise as tick-borne rabbit fever prompts caution; Francisella tularensis is the bacterium behind the illness, a fastidious, nonmotile Gram-negative coccobacillus.
Tularemia, or rabbit fever, is being monitored after four local infections have been identified in Suffolk County. Health officials warn about tick and insect exposure, with symptoms ranging from fever to swollen nodes. Prevention centers on insect repellent, protective clothing, and prompt medical care.