Luxembourg’s Veterinary and Food Administration (ALVA) confirmed a new case of tularaemia, commonly known as rabbit fever, near Wellenstein on Wednesday. This follows another recent case near Junglinster reported ten days earlier.
The infected rabbit was found dead along a country road near Wellenstein on 14 April and subsequently tested positive at the Veterinary and Food Laboratory (LVA). “Laboratory results confirmed tularaemia in this specimen on 16 April”, ALVA stated in an official release.
Tularaemia, caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis, primarily affects wild animals, with rabbits being particularly susceptible. The disease poses risks as it can spread to humans through direct contact with infected animals or carcasses. Additional transmission methods include consumption of contaminated water, inhalation of infected dust, or bites from infected insects like ticks.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Viticulture advises the public to avoid unprotected contact with wild animals or carcasses. When handling potential carriers, proper protective equipment like disposable gloves and FFP2/FFP3 masks should be worn.
The Veterinary and Food Administration emphasises that hare and rabbit meat must be cooked thoroughly before consumption, as proper heating reliably kills the tularaemia pathogen. Pet owners are advised to prevent dogs and cats from contacting wild hares or rabbits, as these domestic animals can both contract and transmit the disease to humans.
All equipment that has come into contact with potentially infected animals requires thorough cleaning and disinfection to minimise transmission risks.
Residents who encounter sick rabbits should immediately contact the Dudelange Wildlife Care Centre. For deceased rabbits, the public may transport the carcasses to the LVA for examination, though advance notification is required by calling +352 247-82544.
