Tularemia

www.ubalert.com

CANBERRA -- State Deputy Director of Public Health Dr. Chrissie Pickin confirmed on Friday that a rare disease that has never been diagnosed in the southern hemisphere, named tularaemia, has been discovered in Tasmania. Tularemia is an infectious bacterial disease which is transmitted through direct contact or biting ticks. Two women in western Tasmania reportedly contracted the disease after they were bitten and scratched by sick possums. Pickin said both women have recovered, and warned the public to refrain from handling wild animals and consult their physician if scratched or bitten. Although the disease is known in North America and parts of Asia and Europe, it is suspected that the case in Tasmania is the first in the southern hemisphere. Veterinarian Dr. James Harris said tularaemia has various effects on humans, including septicemia and pneumonia. He added that the disease can be successfully cured with antibiotics, but when left untreated, it can be fatal.

Source: http://news.xinhuanet.com/english2010/health/2011-11/04/c_131229538.htm