Francisella tularensis

Definition

Francisella tularensis is a highly infectious bacterium that causes the disease tularemia, also known as 'rabbit fever'. It is primarily transmitted through contact with infected animals, contaminated food or water, or the bite of infected ticks or other insects. Francisella tularensis is considered a potential bioterrorism agent due to its ability to cause severe illness and its potential for weaponization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Francisella tularensis is classified as a Tier 1 select agent by the CDC due to its potential for use as a bioweapon.
2. The bacterium can be transmitted through multiple routes, including inhalation, ingestion, and direct contact with infected animals or their tissues.
3. Tularemia caused by Francisella tularensis can present in various forms, including ulceroglandular, glandular, oropharyngeal, pneumonic, and typhoidal.
4. Antibiotics, such as streptomycin, gentamicin, and doxycycline, are effective in treating tularemia if administered promptly.
5. Francisella tularensis is a highly virulent pathogen, with a infectious dose as low as 10 bacteria, and can potentially be aerosolized for use as a biological weapon.

Review Questions

• Explain how Francisella tularensis relates to the control of microbial growth.
  • Francisella tularensis is a highly infectious bacterium that can be difficult to control due to its low infectious dose and potential for use as a biological weapon. In the context of controlling microbial growth, Francisella tularensis highlights the importance of robust biosafety and biosecurity measures to prevent the accidental or intentional release of this pathogen. Additionally, the development of effective antimicrobial treatments and vaccines is crucial for controlling the spread and impact of tularemia caused by Francisella tularensis.
• Describe the role of Francisella tularensis in bacterial infections of the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
  • Francisella tularensis is a zoonotic pathogen that can infect the circulatory and lymphatic systems, leading to the development of tularemia. The bacterium can be transmitted through the bite of infected ticks or other insects, or by direct contact with infected animals or their tissues. Once in the body, Francisella tularensis can spread through the bloodstream and lymphatic system, causing inflammation and damage to these systems. This can lead to various clinical manifestations of tularemia, including ulceroglandular, glandular, and pneumonic forms, all of which require prompt medical intervention and treatment to prevent severe complications and potential fatality.
• Evaluate the potential impact of Francisella tularensis as a bioterrorism agent and the importance of preparedness measures to address this threat.
  • Francisella tularensis is considered a Tier 1 select agent by the CDC due to its potential use as a bioterrorism weapon. The bacterium's high virulence, low infectious dose, and ability to be aerosolized make it a significant threat to public health and national security. In the context of bioterrorism, the potential release of Francisella tularensis could lead to widespread outbreaks of tularemia, overwhelming healthcare systems and causing significant morbidity and mortality. Effective preparedness measures, including robust biosafety and biosecurity protocols, the development of medical countermeasures (such as vaccines and treatments), and comprehensive emergency response plans, are crucial to mitigate the impact of a potential Francisella tularensis-based bioterrorism attack and ensure the safety and well-being of the population.

Related terms

Tularemia:

A rare infectious disease caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis, characterized by fever, chills, headaches, and a skin ulcer at the site of infection.

Zoonotic Disease: An infectious disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans, such as tularemia from infected rodents or rabbits.

Bioterrorism: The intentional release of biological agents, such as Francisella tularensis, to cause harm, fear, or disruption in a population.