(West Glacier, Montana) – A rare and serious bacterial disease has been confirmed inside Glacier National Park. Park officials say a beaver found between Upper and Lower St. Mary Lakes recently tested positive for tularemia.
The disease occurs naturally and can affect wildlife, pets, and humans. It is commonly spread through tick or fly bites, or by coming into contact with infected animals and contaminated water.
Park visitors are urged to take precautions by regularly applying insect repellent, washing their hands often, keeping a safe distance from wildlife, and drinking only treated or boiled water.
In humans, tularemia can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fever, chills, body aches, and headaches. Symptoms usually appear within two weeks of exposure, and health officials say the disease is highly treatable with antibiotics if diagnosed early.
