Colorado health officials are warning small-game hunters to keep vigilant after the number of human tularemia cases climbed from an average of three annually to 11 cases confirmed so far this year.
Nine of the 11 infected people were hospitalized, according to a news release by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
“We haven’t seen this many tularemia cases in Colorado since the 1980s,” said state public health veterinarian Jennifer House. “Historically, we see cases of tularemia in hunters, and the disease is so widespread this year, we want to make sure our hunters understand the risks.”
Animals from 12 counties have tested positive for the bacterial disease, which causes illness and death in rodents such as rabbits and squirrels,the release said.
In humans, the disease can cause joint pain, fever, breathing difficulties, skin ulcers, swollen or painful lymph nodes, inflamed eyes, vomiting, pneumonia and other symptoms, the release said.
The department suggests hunters avoid lazy small game, bypass areas with dead small game, wear gloves when handling animals, wash hands after removing gloves and cook all game meat to 160 to 170 degrees.
Those who fall ill after exposure to a sick or a dead animal are encouraged to see a health care provider about possible tularemia.
Elizabeth Hernandez: 303-954-1223, ehernandez@denverpost.com or
