What type of infection is tularemia?

Tularemia is classified as a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. It is primarily associated with animal reservoirs, particularly rabbits, but can also be found in other wildlife, such as rodents and birds. People typically become infected through contact with infected animals, exposure to contaminated water, or bites from infected insects.

The choice indicating it as a fungal infection is misleading, as tularemia does not involve any fungal pathogens. The option suggesting it is a viral infection is also incorrect, as this condition specifically arises from a bacterium, not a virus. Additionally, categorizing it as a parasitic infection neglects the causative role of a bacteria in tularemia. Understanding that tularemia is bacterial is vital for recognizing proper transmission routes, potential treatments, and appropriate public health responses.