Communicable Disease
Epidemiology
Current Issues -- Tularemia
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Tularemia reported in Western Washington (updated 1/23/06)During 2005, nine human cases of tularemia were reported in residents of western Washington including Clark (3), Cowlitz (2), Thurston (2), King (1), and Lewis (1) counties. Tularemia is an uncommon bacterial infection that circulates in nature among small mammals (i.e. rabbits, squirrels, rodents, and beaver). Ticks and deer flies can also carry and transmit tularemia. In most years, 2-4 cases of tularemia are reported annually. Illness investigations show that the recent cases are not linked to each other and have been contracted naturally; mostly from insect bites, and the use of power landscaping tools which stir up infected animal carcasses making an airborne dust that is contaminated with the bacteria. The Department is working with local health jurisdictions to enhance monitoring for tularemia. Health advisories have been sent to health care providers and veterinarians in southwest Washington. Information has also been provided to neighboring state health authorities, WSDA, WSFW, and the state veterinary lab in Pullman. Health Advisory for
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