Rocky mountain spotted fever is an acute illness varcharacterized by fever. It is caused by a bacteria that is transmitted by infected ticks. It is not contagious from person to person, but is transmitted to humans when they are bitten by an infected tick. It affects the skin, central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and muscles. It is more common in children and young adults. In the U.S. it is more common in late spring and early summer. Most cases of Rocky mountain spotted fever are mild, however, occasionally they can be severe and life threatening.
Causes of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
Rocky mountain spotted fever is caused by the bacteria rickettsia. Sometimes these bacteria will live in certain ticks, such as wood ticks or dog ticks. Bites from these ticks will transmit the bacteria into the human host. The disease is most prevalent in the U.S. during the spring and summer. The disease occurs in all states of the U.S., especially on the Eastern seaboard.
Signs and Symptoms of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
The symptoms of Rocky mountain spotted fever can vary. Usually they produce a relatively mild illness. However, at times, the symptoms may be severe. About 2-5 days following a bite from an infected tick, fever and chills develop. A red rash usually appears that begins on hands and feet and spreads to ankles, wrists, legs, trunk and abdomen. Headache, muscle aches, weakness, stiff back, nausea, vomiting, mental confusion, and coma may all occur.
advertisement
Find more information
Advertisement
Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
Disclaimer
The information contained on this site is for the sole purpose of
being informative. This information is not and should not be used or relied upon as medical
advice. Always seek the advice of your physician, nurse
Or other qualified health care provider before you undergo any treatment or
for answers to any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
If you believe you have a medical emergency, please discontinue use
of MyElectronicMD and call 911 now.
Nothing contained on or provided through the service is intended to be or is
to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment.
Your use of this site is subject to certain terms and conditions.
