Tularemia

Tularemia is spread by bites from ticks and deer flies, contact with infected animals, and contact with contaminated soil, food, or water. Tularemia can be aerosolized and inhaled when mowing or moving hay, grass, grain, or soil. Tularemia can occur in livestock and pets. Cats are especially susceptible due to their predatory nature. If your pet exhibits a sudden onset of illness, including fevers or lethargy, seek veterinary assistance.

Prevention: 

  • Don’t feed wildlife close to your home.
  • Avoid handling sick or dead animals.
  • Wear gloves when gardening or when handling animals.
  • Wear a mask when mowing.
  • When hiking, camping, or moving through dense brush - wear high boots, long pants, and shirts, and treat clothing with insect repellent.
  • Keep your pets up to date with flea and tick prevention.
  • Leash pets and keep them away from areas where sick or dead animals have been found.
  • Don’t let pets drink from puddles, streams, or ponds when outdoors.
  • Do not feed pets raw meat.

How do I handle a dead animal found on my property?

If there was any type of contact between the animal and a person or pet, call WCDPHE at (970) 400-2290 before disposing of any carcasses. For disposal of an animal with no exposures, review the Animal Carcass Disposal Guidance from the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment.  

For more information:

Centers for Disease Control 

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