Rocky Mountain
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (pronunciation: ROK-ee MOUN-tin SPOT-ed FEE-ver, etymology: Named after the Rocky Mountains, where the disease was first identified) is a bacterial infection transmitted by the bite of an infected tick.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever typically begin with sudden onset of fever and headache, and may also include rash, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain (without diarrhea), and muscle pain.
Cause
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is caused by the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii, which is carried by ticks. The disease is primarily transmitted to humans by two types of ticks: the American dog tick and the Rocky Mountain wood tick.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is based on symptoms and physical findings, as well as the possibility of exposure to infected ticks. Laboratory testing can also confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever generally includes a course of the antibiotic doxycycline. Early treatment can prevent severe disease and death.
Prevention
Prevention of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever primarily involves avoiding exposure to infected ticks. This can be achieved through the use of tick repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants when in tick-infested areas, and performing a full-body tick check after spending time in wooded or grassy areas.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Rocky Mountain
- Wikipedia's article - Rocky Mountain
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