MU Researchers Study Rabbit Fever As Part Of Biodefense Plan

University of Missouri-Columbia researchers are conducting studies on the disease tularemia, or Rabbit Fever, as part of a biodefense plan. The disease is found in rabbits and other small animals, and can be deadly if contracted by humans. The fear is that this agent will be used by terrorists as a biological weapon, so a vaccine is being sought. Tom Reilly, a professor of veterinary pathobiology at the University, says researchers have already learned quite a bit about the natural agent that attacks Rabbit Fever and they’re trying to harness it. Typically, 24 to 48 hours after contracting the disease, there are signs of pneumonia and fever.