Rabbit plague in the Biberach district: Be careful of infection!

Rabbit plague in the Biberach district: Be careful of infection!

The discovery of a brown hare suffering from hare plague is causing a stir in the Biberach district. This was found in Unlingen and could now have far-reaching consequences. Rabbit plague, also known as tularemia, is a highly contagious disease that occurs in both animals and humans. Loud n-tv The disease has only rarely been detected in Germany, but the number of unreported cases could be higher.

Small wild animals such as hares, rabbits and mice are particularly affected. Dogs, on the other hand, can also become infected, but the risk is relatively low due to their natural resistance. Nevertheless, it is advisable for dog owners to keep their four-legged friends on a leash when out in nature. Dorothee Bock, the head of the Biberach district veterinary office, calls on people not to touch dead wild animals or wild animals that are supposedly in need of help, but rather to inform the responsible hunting leaseholder or the veterinary office.

Routes of transmission and symptoms

Transmission of rabbit plague to humans is rare, but certainly possible. Loud SWR This occurs, among other things, through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated water, and also through inhaling dust that is contaminated with pathogens. Pathogens can also be transmitted through mosquito bites or the preparation and consumption of undercooked meat. Timme, an expert in infectious diseases, confirms that there have already been several cases of rabbit plague in animals in the region, for example in Trier.

The symptoms of the infection are similar to flu-like symptoms and can include fever, fatigue, headache and body aches, as well as chills and nausea. People who have frequent contact with wild rabbits or the carriers are at higher risk of infection. The incubation period is one to ten days, and if left untreated the disease can be fatal in up to 30% of cases melexi reported.

Precautions and treatment

As noted by the Robert Koch Institute, there are no documented cases of human-to-human transmission. However, a timely diagnosis enables treatment with antibiotics, which significantly reduces the mortality rate. Symptoms in humans can be varied, with flu-like signs and even pneumonia in severe cases.

A vaccine against tularemia is not available in Germany, but people at risk can better protect themselves through simple precautionary measures such as wearing gloves and breathing masks when in contact with wild animals. Pet owners are well advised to keep a careful eye on their pets outdoors and protect them if necessary.

The situation in Baden-Württemberg remains tense as the number of unreported cases is increasing and the health authorities have to be particularly vigilant. It is still recommended to report any wild animals or carcasses found to prevent the disease from spreading.