Image of Francisellaceae

Description:

Using methylene blue stain, this photomicrograph revealed the presence of Francisella tularensis bacteria, formerly known as Pasteurella tularensis. F. tularensis is the pathogen responsible for causing the disease tularemia.

What is Tularemia?

Tularemia is a potentially serious illness that occurs naturally in the United States. It is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis found in animals (especially rodents, rabbits, and hares).

What are the Symptoms of Tularemia?

Symptoms of tularemia could include:

- sudden fever

- chills

- headaches

- diarrhea

- muscle

- aches

- joint pain

- dry cough

- progressive weakness

People can also catch pneumonia and develop chest pain, bloody sputum and can have trouble breathing and even sometimes stop breathing.
Created: 1972