
Tularemia Surfaces in New York: Tick-Linked 'Rabbit Fever' in Suffolk County
New York health officials report tularemia—often called rabbit fever—has appeared in Suffolk County with multiple cases in recent years (six in 2025, four in 2024, three in 2023), while New York City has seen only about 10 cases since 2000. The infection, transmitted by tick bites or contact with infected animals, can cause varied symptoms and may progress to pneumonia if untreated. It is treatable with antibiotics such as doxycycline. Prevention focuses on using EPA-registered insect repellents, wearing protective clothing outdoors, performing tick checks on people and pets, handling wildlife with gloves, and cooking game meat thoroughly.













