Rhode Island Department of HealthState of Rhode Island
Department of Health
Rhode Island Department of HealthState of Rhode Island
Department of Health
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (Rickettsiosis) is a tickborne disease caused by the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii. This organism is a cause of potentially fatal human illness in North and South America, and is transmitted to humans by the bite of infected tick species.
The first symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) typically begin 2-14 days after the bite of an infected tick. A tick bite is usually painless and about half of the people who develop RMSF do not remember being bitten. The disease frequently begins as a sudden onset of fever and headache and most people visit a healthcare provider during the first few days of symptoms. Because early symptoms may be non-specific, several visits may occur before the diagnosis of RMSF is made and correct treatment begins. The following symptoms are commonly seen with this disease; fever, rash (occurs 2-5 days after fever, may be absent in some cases; see below), headache , nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain (may mimic appendicitis or other causes of acute abdominal pain), muscle pain, lack of appetite, conjunctival injection (red eyes). It is important to note that few people with the disease will develop all symptoms, and the number and combination of symptoms varies greatly from person to person;
RMSF is a serious illness that can be fatal in the first eight days of symptoms if not treated correctly, even in previously healthy people. The progression of the disease varies greatly. Patients who are treated early may recover quickly on outpatient medication, while those who experience a more severe course may require intravenous antibiotics, prolonged hospitalization or intensive care.
It spreads through the bite of infected ticks.
Reducing exposure to ticks is the best defense against Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Babesiosis, Ehrliochiosis, and other tickborne infections. There are several steps you and your family can take to prevent and control tick borne diseases:
It takes roughly a day or two for ticks to transmit bacteria it is important to remove ticks from your skin as soon as you discover them. If there is a concern about incomplete tick removal, please contact your healthcare provider. (more)
Methods such as serology and molecular methods can be used.
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever can be treated with antibiotics.
