Rise in feline, animal disease that can infect humans seen in Minnesota

Kristi Miller, Pioneer Press
Updated ·2 min read

Authorities say there is an increase in cases of tularemia cases in the state, a disease that affects animals, mostly cats, but that can also infect people.

The Minnesota Department of Health and the state Board of Animal Health say normally only about seven cases are reported annually, but last year 21 cases were reported, and so far this year there have already been seven cases reported.

Other animals with symptoms of the disease have appeared at veterinary clinics but not been officially tested.

Tularemia is a potentially serious illness that can infect animals and people, and is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis, which is found in wildlife — particularly rabbits, squirrels and other rodents, state health officials said in a news release.

Pets can be exposed by hunting the animals but also by tick or fly bites. Signs of illness in animals include high fever, weakness, lack of appetite, new skin or mouth ulcers, and swollen lymph nodes. In people, signs include sudden onset of fever, skin wounds or ulcers, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, chills, joint and muscle pain, and nausea. Symptoms in people generally appear three to five days after exposure but may occur as soon as the next day or up to 14 days after exposure.

“In May 2024, a person from Ramsey County developed tularemia after being bitten by a stray cat. In June, a person from Hennepin County became infected after mowing over a dead animal,” the release said.

To keep people and pets safe from tularemia:

  • Keep cats indoors and do not allow pets to hunt small animals.

  • Give pets tick preventative medication to help prevent tick bites.

  • Use insect repellent to stop ticks and flies from biting.

  • Avoid contact with wild animals; wear gloves if you must handle them.

  • If pets spend significant time outside or if they have had known rabbit or rodent contact and develop symptoms consistent with tularemia, MDH and BAH encourage owners to bring them into their veterinarian for evaluation.

Anyone bitten or scratched by an animal that meets these criteria should call MDH at 651-201-5414 as well as their health care professional about what to do next.

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