Glacier National Park officials reported last week that a beaver found on the east side of the park has tested positive for tularemia, a rare but serious bacterial disease. The beaver was located between Upper and Lower St. Mary Lakes.
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Tularemia can affect wildlife, pets, and humans and is typically spread through bites from infected ticks or flies. It poses a significant risk to small mammals such as voles, rabbits, and beavers. Humans and pets can contract the disease through contact with infected animals, contaminated food or water, or inhalation, although person-to-person transmission is rare.
To minimize the risk of tularemia infection, park officials advise visitors to take several precautions: apply insect repellent regularly, wash hands frequently, maintain a safe distance from wildlife, and consume only treated or boiled water.
In humans, symptoms of tularemia may include fever and chills, joint pain, muscle aches, headaches, dry cough, chest pain, skin ulcers or sores at tick bite sites, and swollen lymph nodes. Those who experience these symptoms within two weeks of visiting an affected area are urged to seek medical attention and inform their healthcare provider about potential tularemia exposure. Early diagnosis allows for effective treatment with antibiotics.
For more information on tularemia, visit nps.gov/articles/tularemia.htm.