Risk factors

Although anyone of any age can develop tularemia, engaging in certain occupations or activities or living in certain areas pose a greater risk.

Living in or visiting certain areas

Tularemia has been reported in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Japan and Europe. In the United States, it's usually more common in Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and South Dakota, though there were outbreaks in Colorado, Nebraska and Wyoming in 2015. Tularemia has also been reported in parts of Massachusetts, including Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket.

Having certain hobbies or occupations

The following can increase your risk of developing tularemia:

• Hunting and trapping. Because hunters are exposed to wild animal blood and may eat wild animal flesh, they're at risk of tularemia.
• Gardening or landscaping. Gardeners and landscapers may also be at risk of tularemia. It's possible that gardeners inhale bacteria that are stirred up while working the soil or when using lawn mowers and weed trimmers.
• Working in wildlife management or veterinary medicine. People who work with wildlife or domestic animals are at increased risk of tularemia.