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Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, also known as spotted fever
or tick fever, is a common tick-borne illness that has been
overshadowed by the publicity regarding Lyme disease. Rocky
Mountain Spotted Fever is primarily a western United States
illness; however it is found in all states except Hawaii and
Alaska. As of 2002, there have not been any reported cases
in the state of Maine. One of the main vectors of the tick
is the domestic dog, which has played an important role in
the spread of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever throughout the
United States.
Symptoms
Incubation period appears to range from 2-14 days, 7 days
being about the average. 100% of individuals do develop a
fever followed by a rash. Ironically, the rash only occurs
in about 87% of cases. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are not
uncommon. There is often a rapid onset of symptoms. In those
individuals who do develop a rash, this generally occurs around
the 5th or 6th day, and seen around the wrists, ankles, forearms,
soles of feet, palms of the hands, and spreads rapidly to
the trunk and buttocks last.
Treatment
Mortality rate is low since the advent of antibiotics. Treatment
with Tetracycline or Chloramphenicol is highly effective. |
