Tularemia in Colorado – What Neighbors Need to Know

Thanks to everyone who checked in to our weekly Community GMRS NET! Our "Safety and Awareness" discussion segment sparked some excellent dialogue.

For those who missed it or couldn't catch the full transmission, we centered our discussion around a recent warning from Colorado public health officials. A dead rabbit in Larimer County tested positive for Tularemia (commonly known as "Rabbit Fever").

Because many of our neighbors are avid hikers, campers, hunters, and folks with larger properties, this is a highly relevant local issue. Here is a breakdown of what we discussed over the air, why it matters to the radio community, and how to keep yourself safe.

What is Tularemia?

Tularemia is a rare but serious bacterial infection. While it naturally occurs in the environment, it is highly contagious among small mammals like cottontail rabbits, jackrabbits, prairie dogs, and squirrels.

According to data shared from a recent UCHealth report, human cases are rare Colorado only saw nine cases in 2025 but the bacteria is present year-round, peaking between May and July. Because the Front Range is where wildlife and human populations overlap the most, we are right in the thick of it.

The Danger: How It Spreads

During the NET, neighbors asked how this passes to humans since it cannot be spread person-to-person. There are three main vectors:

1. Insect Bites: Ticks and deer flies.

2. Direct Contact: Handling an infected animal carcass (skinning game, moving a dead rabbit from the yard).

3. Inhalation (The highest risk for property owners): Inhaling contaminated dust or agricultural particles.

The Landscaping Risk: One crucial point on inhalation. If you are mowing your lawn and accidentally run over an infected animal carcass hidden in tall grass, the bacteria becomes aerosolized. Inhaling it can cause severe respiratory issues, including pneumonia.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

If you are bitten by a tick, a distinct, ulcerated sore with a red border typically develops and will not heal on its own.

Both the skin form and the inhaled respiratory form are accompanied by a high, sudden fever. If you experience these symptoms and have been outdoors, hiking, or landscaping, seek medical care immediately. Tularemia responds well to standard antibiotics if caught early, but you must tell your doctor if you've been around wildlife or suffered an insect bite, as it can mimic common lung infections.

Safety Tips & Action Items for the Community

In our mountain community, we pride ourselves on situational awareness and preparedness.

Here are the takeaway safety protocols we agreed on last night:

• Clear the Zone Before You Mow: Before starting up the lawnmower or weed-eater, walk your property. Check tall grass and thick brush for any dead wildlife.

• Mask Up for Heavy Yardwork: If you are kicking up a lot of dust while landscaping or doing agricultural work, wear a mask to protect your lungs.

• Gear Up for Bugs: When out hiking, wear long sleeves and pants (tuck your pants into your socks). Use EPA-approved insect repellent or treat your outdoor gear with permethrin.

• The "Zero Contact" Rule: Never touch a dead animal with bare hands. If you are hunting or trapping small game this season, always wear robust gloves when cleaning the animal and ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly.

• Post-Hike Intel: Do a thorough tick check as soon as you get home - especially along the hairline, underarms, and skin folds. Jump in the shower immediately to wash away any loose ticks before they embed.