2023-12-16 06:01:00
This infectious disease caused by bacteria has a very high mortality rate. Especially since its diagnosis is complex since the symptoms are common with other diseases.
The alert published by American health authorities, les Centers for Disease Control and Prevention a few days ago is worrying. The rapid and deadly spread of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever among some American travelers necessitated the publication of an advisory.
This disease, endemic to Mexico, is caused by bacteria and transmitted by ticks. It is fatal if not treated immediately. The only problem is that it is difficult to diagnose.
How is this disease contracted?
This disease is caused by the bacteria Rickettsia rickettsii which is transmitted to humans by a tick. Rocky Mountain spotted fever is also called tick-borne typhus or Malvasia or São Paulo fever.
Where does it occur?
Rocky Mountain spotted fever is an endemic disease of concern in several states in northern Mexico.
Symptoms, incubation and treatment
The first symptoms of this disease are fever, headache, and muscle pain, followed by the appearance of a rash. Symptoms common to more common pathologies. Which makes it difficult to diagnose.
The incubation period for spotted fever is on average 7 days but can range from 3 to 12 days. The shorter the incubation period, the more serious the infection.
Antibiotic treatment is necessary to treat and thus eliminate the bacteria. Doxycycline should be administered promptly to all patients, including children and pregnant women.
Recent cases
Five patients, four of whom were under the age of 18, were reported in California. These are tourists who traveled to the town of Tecate, in the state of Baja California, Mexico. Among them, three died.
Why is she worried?
First of all, given the difficulty in diagnosing it and the lack of early treatment often being fatal, health authorities are very cautious when cases are reported.
In addition, ticks can attach to dogs and therefore be transported beyond the affected area. As the progression of the disease is rapid and fatal, the fact that the disease is endemic to a specific geographic area makes it possible to limit cases and identify them before symptoms worsen.
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