Tularemia in a Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Author Information
Author(s): Julie R. Sinclair, Alisa Newton, Keith Hinshaw, George Fraser, Patrina Ross, Esther Chernak, Caroline Johnson, Nancy Warren
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Conclusion
The study found a cluster of tularemia infections in rabbits in a Philadelphia park, indicating the presence of F. tularensis in the environment.
Supporting Evidence
- Six out of 14 rabbits tested positive for F. tularensis.
- The 2004 and 2006 isolates were identified as genetically identical.
- No human cases of tularemia were reported during the study period.
- Environmental monitoring did not detect F. tularensis in air samples.
Takeaway
Researchers found sick rabbits in a park, which shows that a harmful germ is around and can make animals sick.
Methodology
The study involved necropsying rabbits and woodchucks, testing for F. tularensis using culture and PCR methods.
Limitations
The investigation did not identify additional infections in humans or other tested animals and ticks.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on eastern cottontail rabbits and woodchucks in a Philadelphia park.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website