If you needed another reason not to pick up dead wildlife, Larimer County just supplied one. Health officials have confirmed that a rabbit found dead in a Berthoud neighborhood was infected with tularemia, prompting a countywide reminder to be careful outside, especially around wild animals.
Public-health staff say the bacteria are circulating in local wildlife and that people who spend time outdoors should stick to some basic, low-effort precautions. Officials stress that the overall risk to most residents remains low as long as people avoid handling sick or dead animals and seek prompt medical care if symptoms emerge.
County confirms detection in a Berthoud rabbit
According to the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment, lab testing confirmed the tularemia bacterium in a rabbit found dead in a Berthoud neighborhood. The department notes that tularemia is likely present in other parts of Larimer County as well, not just where this rabbit was found.
The county’s notice urges people to be cautious around any sick or dead wildlife and says its Zoonosis Program is actively tracking animal activity and testing specimens from around the area. Officials did not report any human illnesses linked specifically to this rabbit.
How tularemia spreads and what to watch for
The disease is caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis and can spread in several ways, including tick and deer fly bites, direct contact with infected animals, drinking contaminated water, or inhaling dust kicked up during mowing or similar outdoor work, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Symptoms typically show up within a few days of exposure and often include fever, swollen lymph nodes, skin ulcers, and fatigue. The good news: when diagnosed early, most infections respond well to targeted antibiotics, so getting medical attention quickly is key.
What officials are urging residents and pet owners to do
The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment is asking residents to tighten up their outdoor habits, especially in spots where dead animals have turned up.
Recommended steps include wearing gloves while gardening, using an EPA-registered insect repellent that works against ticks and biting flies (such as products containing DEET or picaridin), and wearing shoes in areas where dead wildlife has been seen. Health officials also advise using a dust mask when mowing or blowing vegetation to avoid inhaling contaminated particles.
If you do need to dispose of a dead rabbit or rodent, the county says to wear protective gloves, place the carcass in a sealed plastic bag before putting it in the trash, and keep children and pets well away from wild animals. These precautions should continue for several weeks in any area where dead animals have been found, according to the department.
Reporting and local context
Residents who come across multiple dead animals are being asked to speak up. According to CBS Colorado, people should report three or more dead animals discovered within two weeks to the LCDHE Zoonosis Team at 970-498-6666.
"Because tularemia is present in Larimer County, it's important to take steps to avoid infection," Dr. Paul Mayer, the county's medical officer, told CBS Colorado. Since 2020, the county has documented seven human cases of tularemia, the outlet reports.
When to contact a clinician
Anyone who has handled a sick or dead animal, or who develops fever, swollen glands, skin ulcers, or respiratory symptoms after outdoor exposure, should tell their healthcare provider about that contact so appropriate testing and treatment can be started. Early antibiotic therapy is effective against tularemia, and clinicians can choose tests and medications based on a person’s exposure history and symptoms.
Pet owners are urged to call a veterinarian if their animals show signs of illness and to prevent pets from scavenging carcasses or interacting with wild animals. Keeping curious dogs and cats away from dead rabbits may save everyone a trip to the clinic.
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