Rabbit on island tests positive for contagious infection March 16, 2021 FacebookTwitterEmail PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — A cottontail rabbit trapped by authorities tested positive for a contagious bacterial infection that can sicken humans and other animals. The rabbit with Tularemia, or rabbit fever, was trapped on Patience Island in Rhode Island's Narragansett Bay, the state Department of Environmental Management said on Monday. Authorities learned of the diagnosis March 3 and urged visitors to Patience Island to avoid contact with wildlife, including biting insects, and to cover their face and eyes. The male rabbit was trapped as a part of a species restoration program that transfers rabbits from Patience Island to other areas of the cottontail's historic range. The population has been declining, authorities said.