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

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

In the Biberach district, the discovery of a brown hare in Unlingen suffering from hare plague is causing concern. The disease, also known as tularemia, is not only common in wild animals but can also be transmitted to humans. Therefore, caution is advised.

The animal carcasses found make it clear that rabbit plague should not be underestimated. The disease primarily affects small wild animals such as hares, rabbits and mice. This year, various cases have already been reported in several places in Germany, such as SWR reported. Illnesses also occurred in the neighboring Eifel district and in the Wittlich-Land community. In particular, the number of unreported cases could be higher.

Routes of transmission and symptoms

Rabbit plague is transmitted, among other things, through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated surfaces, such as weekly paper communicates. Tick ​​bites or inhaling dust containing pathogens can also lead to infection. The preparation of undercooked meat poses an additional risk. For humans, the symptoms are similar to flu: fever, fatigue, chills and nausea are included. If left untreated, tularemia can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia.

The challenges of the disease are compounded by the fact that the pathogen, the bacteriumFrancisella tularensis, is very highly contagious. There are no available vaccines against tularemia in Germany, which is why protective measures such as wearing gloves when handling wild animals are recommended.

Be careful when dealing with wild animals

The concerns of Dorothee Bock, the head of the Biberach district veterinary office, are clear: she advises not to touch dead or injured wild animals and instead to immediately inform the responsible hunting leaseholder or the veterinary office. Dog owners should keep their four-legged companions on a leash, as dogs can also become infected - albeit to a lesser extent, as they have a high natural resistance.

Although the general danger to the population is considered to be low, it is still advisable to be aware of the risks. People who frequently interact with wild animals or the carriers should be particularly careful.

The compilation of the numbers provides serious information about the current situation: As of May 8, 2025, five cases of rabbit plague were registered in humans in Baden-Württemberg, while a total of 22 cases were reported across Germany, according to media reports.

Let's wait and stay careful - nature can be treacherous sometimes!