Dead Rabbit in Illinois Tests Positive for Tularemia—Here’s What That Means

Spring fever has officially taken over, and that means more hiking, yard work, and random road trips to places we can't spell without GPS help. While yoy're out enjoying it all, here's one thing to keep in mind that isn't allergy-related.

First, you should know this:

Not a Panic Situation—Just a Heads-Up for Outdoor Season

You know spring has officially hit when Illinois residents start emerging from hibernation and turning into backyard adventurers, trail explorers, and weekend road trippers. But before you head out to enjoy the glorious weather, here's a little "not-to-alarm-you-but-worth-knowing" health heads-up.

A rabbit found dead in Tuscola tested positive for tularemia, a bacterial disease that can affect both humans and pets. Douglas County officials confirmed the case and are asking folks to stay alert, not panicked, just alert.

MORE: 7 Plants That Will Repel Ticks From Your Illinois Yard

What is Tularemia

Tularemia is caused by the Francisella tularensis bacteria, which is found in animals like rabbits, rodents, and hares. It can spread through contact with infected animals, tick or flea bites, or by inhaling/ingesting contaminated materials. Symptoms in humans and pets range from fever and swollen lymph nodes to skin ulcers, diarrhea, and cough.

If you or your pets start showing those symptoms, contact your doctor or vet right away.

MORE: The 3 Animals You Can Hunt Year-Round in Illinois

What You Can Do

• Supervise pets when they're outdoors
• Use tick prevention for cats and dogs
• Don't mow over dead animals (gross and dangerous)
• Avoid handling wild critters
• Report large die-offs of rabbits/rodents to animal control

Also, according to wgntv.com, a squirrel in Champaign County tested positive on April 16, so this isn't a one-town thing. Let's stay smart while we soak up the spring

👉 More info on tularemia from the CDC
👉 Douglas County Health Department updates here

Share this with your fellow pet lovers and outdoor wanderers—especially those who can't resist petting every wild bunny they see.

MORE: Illinois Residents Will See More Cicadas if These 2 Things Are in Your Yard