Nine beavers have been found dead across multiple counties in Utah, with three testing positive for tularemia, a disease that can affect both animals and humans. Tularemia is known to infect rabbits, hares, and rodents, often causing large die-offs during outbreaks. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is asking the public to refrain from touching dead beavers and report any findings to officials. The last confirmed case of tularemia killing wildlife in Utah was in 2017 with a cottontail rabbit in the Kanab area.
The bacteria that causes tularemia is present in many parts of Utah’s environment, although it is unusual to see such a significant amount of animals affected at once. Tularemia can spread to humans through tick and deer fly bites, skin contact with infected animals, drinking contaminated water, inhaling contaminated aerosols, exposure in the laboratory, among other ways. Also known as rabbit fever, tularemia can be life-threatening if not treated promptly, but most infections can be successfully treated with antibiotics. Symptoms vary depending on how the person was infected.
Stout from the DWR advises taking precautions when in areas where tick- or fly-borne diseases are a concern. This includes wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks after being in brushy areas. The CDC recommends prevention methods such as using insect repellent, wearing gloves when handling sick or dead animals, and avoiding mowing over dead animals to prevent tularemia infection. It is crucial to be vigilant in protecting oneself from potential exposure to the disease.
Overall, tularemia has killed multiple beavers in Utah and has the potential to affect humans, making it essential to take necessary precautions to prevent infection. State wildlife officials are urging the public not to touch dead animals and report any findings to DWR officials. With the bacteria that causes tularemia present in various parts of the environment, it underscores the importance of understanding how the disease spreads and the measures one can take to protect against it. By being aware of the risks and taking necessary steps to prevent exposure, individuals can lower the likelihood of contracting tularemia.
