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Tularemia in Alaska, 1938 - 2010
Cristina M Hansen1, Amy J Vogler, Paul Keim
1Institute of Arctic Biology and Department of Biology and Wildlife, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 902 N, Koyukuk Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA.
Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica
|November 22, 2011
Summary
Tularemia, a zoonotic disease caused by Francisella tularensis, is prevalent in Alaska. The virulent subtype A.I is responsible for most human cases, highlighting the need for ongoing surveillance.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Tularemia, a zoonotic disease caused by Francisella tularensis, is endemic in the Northern Hemisphere.
- Francisella tularensis was first identified in Alaska in 1938 and has since been detected in wildlife and humans across the state.
Observation:
- Serological studies indicate varying antibody prevalence in Alaskan wildlife (up to 50%) and humans (4-18%).
- This study reviewed existing literature on tularemia surveillance in Alaska and analyzed human case data.
- Genetic analysis of F. tularensis isolates from Alaska was performed using canonical SNPs and multi-locus variable-number tandem repeats (MLVA).
Findings:
- Both Francisella tularensis subspecies tularensis and holarctica circulate in Alaska.
- The highly virulent subtype A.I of F. tularensis is associated with the majority of recent human tularemia cases in Alaska.
Implications:
- Understanding the genetic diversity and prevalence of Francisella tularensis is crucial for public health strategies in Alaska.
- Continued surveillance and molecular typing are essential for managing tularemia risks in wildlife and human populations.
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