Long Island Reports Three Probable Tularemia Cases as Tick-Borne Illnesses Rise

Three probable tularemia cases, also known as rabbit fever, have been identified in Suffolk County, Long Island, as tick-borne illnesses rise. The illness can be contracted through tick bites, handling infected animals, contaminated water, inhaled dust, or even mowing over dead animals, and diagnosis can take weeks. It is not spread person-to-person; antibiotics are typically effective, and prevention includes using insect repellent and avoiding contact with sick or dead animals.