Nebraska seeing increase in Tularemia cases in Panhandle

This year, a disease called tularemia has been widely reported in Nebraska and neighboring states. Eighteen cases have been reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services so far in 2015 which represents a 25-year high. Many of the cases are in the Panhandle. Age range of people affected is 3-82 years old. Eleven people were hospitalized.

Tularemia is a disease that can affect animals and people. It’s caused by a bacteria found in animals, insects, soil and water. Rabbits, rodents and hares are especially susceptible. Tularemia can be transmitted to people through several rout...