The Southern tick-associated rash illness is a rash that
is very similar to Lyme disease. However, it does not have
the central bulls-eye rash that is seen in Lyme disease,
but is more of a systemic generalized rash. It has been
isolated from the bite of Lone Star tick. Lone Star ticks
are found throughout the Southeast and the Midwest. It is
the organism Borrelia Lonestari that causes the illness,
which is characterized by a generalized rash, fever, fatigue
and headache. At this time, it is believed that Stari is
a self-limited disease, and the severe complications sometimes
seen in individuals with Lyme disease such as heart, neurologic
and arthritic problems, are rarely found in those infected
with Stari. Recent data suggests that the symptoms resolve
quickly, within 7-10 days. However it is recommended at
this time that the antibiotic Doxycycline be used to treat
this.
The first case appears to have occurred in Alabama in 1999,
and the first evidence in medical literature was reported
in 2001.
Survive Outdoors will attempt to update its readership
regarding any additional data as it becomes available.
Survive Outdoors would like to make individuals aware
that there is a company called Analytical Services, Inc.
where you can actually send the tick with your name, address
and phone number (include area code), and a prepayment in
the amount of $49.00/tick to:
Tick Testing
Analytical Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 515
Williston, Vermont 05495
Please be advised the ticks will not be processed without
payment. You should allow at least two weeks, or 10 business
days for your test results, which will be mailed to you.
