Scrub typhus
Scrub Typhus
Scrub typhus (/ˈskrʌb ˈtaɪfəs/), also known as tsutsugamushi disease, is a disease caused by the bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi. It is spread to people through bites of infected chiggers (larval mites). The term "scrub typhus" comes from the habitat of the chiggers, which is commonly found in areas of heavy scrub vegetation.
Etymology
The term "scrub typhus" is derived from the type of vegetation (scrub) that harbors the vector chiggers. The word "typhus" is from the Greek typhos meaning hazy, describing the state of mind of those affected. The disease is also known as "tsutsugamushi disease", which comes from the Japanese words "tsutsuga" meaning illness and "mushi" meaning insect.
Symptoms
The symptoms of scrub typhus include fever, headache, body aches, and sometimes rash. In severe cases, it can lead to complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of scrub typhus is usually based on symptoms and a history of exposure to areas where the disease is common. Laboratory tests can confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Scrub typhus is usually treated with the antibiotic doxycycline. If treated early, recovery is usually rapid.
Prevention
Prevention of scrub typhus primarily involves avoiding areas where chigger mites are found and using insect repellents.
Related Terms
- Orientia tsutsugamushi
- Chiggers
- Pneumonia
- Meningitis
- Acute respiratory distress syndrome
- Doxycycline
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Scrub typhus
- Wikipedia's article - Scrub typhus
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