What is the most characteristic presentation of Rocky Mountain spotted fever?
Early signs and symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever include a severe headache and high fever. A few days later, a rash usually appears on the wrists and ankles. Rocky Mountain spotted fever responds well to prompt treatment with antibiotics.
Who is affected by Rocky Mountain spotted fever?
Around 2,000 cases of RMSF are reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) each year. People who live close to wooded or grassy areas and people who are in frequent contact with dogs have a higher risk of infection.
What are the long term effects of Rocky Mountain spotted fever?
Long-term Health Problems RMSF does not result in chronic or persistent infections. Some patients who recover from severe RMSF may be left with permanent damage, including amputation of arms, legs, fingers, or toes (from damage to blood vessels in these areas); hearing loss; paralysis; or mental disability.
How does a person acquire Rocky Mountain spotted fever?
Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a bacterial disease spread through the bite of an infected tick. Most people who get sick with RMSF will have a fever, headache, and rash. RMSF can be deadly if not treated early with the right antibiotic. There is no vaccine for RMSF.
Does the rash from Rocky Mountain spotted fever itch?
Although the majority of patients with RMSF have a rash, in 4–26%, the rash is absent. The rash initially appears as red macules (flat spots). The macules are 1–5mm in size and may be itchy.
How many people died from the Rocky Mountain spotted fever?
An estimated 612 deaths were attributable to RMSF in the United States during 1983–1998, and approximately 12% of reported deaths occurred in children aged <10 years (4).
Which is an initial manifestation of Rocky Mountain spotted fever?
Signs and symptoms of RMSF begin 3-12 days after the bite of an infected tick. However, because tick bites are not painful, many people do not remember being bitten. Illness generally begins with sudden onset of fever and headache and most people visit a healthcare provider during the first few days of symptoms.
Can Lyme disease be passed from person to person?
Are there other ways to get Lyme disease? There is no evidence that Lyme disease is transmitted from person-to-person. For example, a person cannot get infected from touching, kissing, or having sex with a person who has Lyme disease.
How long does it take to recover from Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever?
Antibiotic therapy for RMSF is usually administered for five to seven days, continuing for at least three days after the fever abates. If an affected individual is treated with appropriate antibiotic therapy within the first three to five days of illness, the fever usually subsides within two to three days.
Does RMSF ever go away?
RMSF can be cured when treated with antibiotics. However, if untreated, serious complications can occur including: Nerve damage.
Can humans get Rocky Mountain spotted fever?
Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a potentially fatal infectious disease transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected tick. The disease occurs throughout the United States during months when ground temperatures reach 40 degrees Fahrenheit or more and ticks are active.
How long does it take to recover from Rocky Mountain fever?