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2 clusters · 14 sources · 3 days · First seen · Last updated

Tularemia outbreak on Long Island

Overview

In early August 2026 Suffolk County health officials reported three probable tularemia cases on Long Island, including a nine‑year‑old boy who fell ill after a tick bite. The initial report highlighted the rarity of the disease in the United States and suggested a possible link to a longer tick season driven by climate change.

A few days later the department confirmed four cases of tularemia, while still monitoring three probable cases. The update emphasized that the infection is transmitted through tick bites or contact with infected wildlife, and reiterated preventive measures such as wearing long pants, using DEET‑based repellents, and checking for ticks after outdoor activities. The cluster underscores a growing tick population in the region and the associated health risks.

Entities

New York State Health Department · John Detmer · Suffolk County Department of Health · Dr. Gregson Pigott · Francisella tularensis

Timeline

  1. 8 days ago

    [HEALTH] 8 sources
    Tularemia Cases Confirmed on Long Island, New York

    Four tularemia cases were confirmed and three probable cases, including a child, were reported on Long Island, NY. Officials urge tick‑avoidance measures and prompt treatment.

  2. 11 days ago

    [HEALTH] 7 sources
    Suffolk County Confirms Three Suspected Tularemia Cases on Long Island

    Suffolk County, NY reports three suspected tularemia (rabbit fever) cases, including a 9‑year‑old boy, amid a rise to four U.S. cases in 2024, prompting CDC prevention advice.

Sources

abc7ny.com · atoday.org · aztecajalisco.com · aztecapuebla.com · aztecaquintanaroo.com · canal44.com · dnyuz.com · eldiariony.com · europesays.com · latestly.com · ntd.com · nypost.com · thecooldown.com · world-today-news.com