Rabbit fever cases confirmed in Santahamina

Several cases of tularemia, also known as rabbit fever, have been confirmed in Helsinki’s Santahamina military island over the past week, with conscripts and cadets among those affected, according to the Guard Jaeger Regiment and the National Defence University.

All those infected serve in Santahamina and have received treatment. They are reported to be in good condition.

The infected individuals had been in the field in Santahamina and were likely exposed through mosquito or other insect bites. All have developed ulcers typical of tularemia, and some have experienced fever. The ulcers appeared within two weeks, and all have been assessed by military healthcare services.

Tularemia is a rare disease typically transmitted in nature via insects. It does not spread from person to person.

To prevent further cases, the Guard Jaeger Regiment has updated guidelines for field operations and informed conscripts, staff, and others working in Santahamina.