CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — A rare disease has been found in central Illinois. University of Illinois' Wildlife Medical Clinic is warning people of tularemia — also known as Rabbit Fever.
The disease can be found in Eastern cottontails, ticks, squirrels and even cats kept outside.
While it's more common in animals, wildlife experts say that people can contract the disease through skin contact, as well as ingesting or breathing infected animal tissue.
Dr. Stephany Lewis, Wildlife Medical Clinic Director, shared tips to protect yourself from catching the disease. "If you're going hiking, wear long pants and wear insect repellent. Check yourself really thoroughly for ticks. If you, have an outdoor cat, keep your cat indoors so that they're not potentially exposed to this disease."
The Illinois Department of Public Health says general effects for tularemia may include fever, chills, muscle pain or tenderness, and lack of energy. Antibiotics are generally used to treat the disease.
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