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Minnesota matches record level of Tularemia cases
Tularemia is an infection caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. Commonly known as “Rabbit Fever” it can cause life threatening illness in both animals and people. We recently matched last year’s record of 27 cases in Minnesota companion animals (24 cats, 3 dogs) and we are still in the peak infection season. Wildlife such as rabbits and squirrels can harbor the disease and can spread it to pets and people, either through direct contact, such as hunting or access to carcasses, or through parasites such as ticks and fleas.
The infection is seen mostly in cats, which are typically infected by hunting, killing and/or consuming infected wildlife. Clinical signs in cats include a high fever, swollen lymph nodes, lack of appetite and lethargy. Recognizing clinical signs and early diagnosis is key to a successful treatment outcome. Oropharyngeal swabs (back of the throat) sent to the veterinary diagnostic laboratory for PCR testing is the simplest and safest way to test. Initiating treatment in suspect animals before test results are reported is recommended.
Treatment consists of using the appropriate antibiotic, such as doxycycline or a fluoroquinolone, and supportive care. Most animals recover fully when the infection is caught early and appropriate therapy is started. Like most infections, prevention is the key. Keeping cats indoors, using flea and tick preventatives, and controlling wildlife populations in or around your home can help to minimize the risk of infection. As Tularemia can be transmitted to humans, anyone who comes into contact with an infected animal, whether they are the owner or a member of the veterinary team that cared for the animal, should contact the Minnesota Department of Health to get more information on precautions to take and what clinical symptoms to watch for that may indicate infection.
Avian Influenza response back in full swing
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) returned to Minnesota's poultry flocks mid-September and has been consistently detected in the following weeks. Experts at the University of Minnesota Extension noted the fall migration of wild waterfowl remains the primary driver of our outbreaks because the birds carry and shed the virus along flyways across the state. They also noted this year's rainfall has created widespread ponding, which pushed migratory birds into new areas and increased the risk of contact with domestic flocks.
Biosecurity remains the best on-the-ground option to protect poultry flocks. Producers should limit exposure to wild birds, sanitize equipment, and report sick or dead poultry immediately. The return of HPAI this autumn underscores the ongoing challenge of keeping our flocks healthy from a persistent threat.
Follow all the latest HPAI detections on the Board's website.
Electronic Certificates of Veterinary Inspection
Did you know? All birds and mammals imported into Minnesota, unless specifically exempted, must be accompanied by a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) issued by a veterinarian accredited in the state of origin. The digital version of these required forms are eCVIs. If you're new to using them or need to brush up on the options available to you as a veterinarian before the paper CVI deadline arrives, please check out our new eCVI video.
Need more details and options to explore on eCVIs in Minnesota? Visit our eCVI webpage.
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