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Tularemia

A zoonotic infection caused by Francisella tularensis, transmitted through contact with rodents and ticks; the oropharyngeal form is particularly common in Türkiye.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Tularemia?

Tularemia is a zoonosis caused by Francisella tularensis, a small Gram-negative bacterium. The bacterium has reservoirs in rabbits, rodents, and other wild animals; it is transmitted to humans through tick bites, animal contact, contaminated water, and aerosols.

The clinical form varies according to the route of transmission: ulceroglandular, glandular, oculoglandular, oropharyngeal, pneumonic, and typhoidal forms. In Türkiye, the oropharyngeal form is prominent due to water-borne outbreaks.

The disease presents with sudden high fever, chills, weakness, headache, and regional lymphadenopathy. If untreated, it can lead to prolonged weakness. Aminoglycosides and ciprofloxacin are effective treatment options.

Symptoms

Sudden onset of high fever and chills
Severe headache and weakness
Sore throat and exudative tonsillitis in oropharyngeal form
Regional lymphadenopathy (cervical, axillary, inguinal)
Ulcer and lymphadenitis at tick bite site (ulceroglandular)
Conjunctivitis and lymphadenitis with eye involvement
Cough and chest pain in pneumonic form

Risk Factors

Contact with rodents and rabbits
Tick bites
Contaminated water consumption (common in Türkiye)
Hunting and rural activities
Slaughterhouse and farm workers
Bioterrorism risk (inhalation route)
Outdoor activities

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Febrile illness after rural area and rodent contact
  • Persistent sore throat and neck lymph node swelling
  • 'Pharyngitis' unresponsive to treatment
  • Ulcer and lymphadenitis after tick bite
  • Suspicious symptoms during regional outbreak

Treatment Methods

01
Streptomycin or gentamicin (in severe cases)
02
Ciprofloxacin or doxycycline (moderate severity)
03
Drainage if needed for lymphadenitis
04
Safe water supply and hygiene (prevention)
05
Tick-preventive measures and long-sleeved clothing
06
Avoid contaminated animal products

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.