Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

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What is it? 

Rocky mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a type of bacterial disease. You can get RMSF if an infected tick bites you. 

 

Signs and Symptoms

At the beginning, you may experience fever and headache. It can rapidly progress to a serious, deadly illness with a range of symptoms, including: 

• Fever
• Headache
• Rash
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach Pain
• Muscle Pain
• Lack of appetite

 

Diagnosis and Treatment

If your doctor thinks you may have RMSF, they may order blood tests to confirm. While waiting for the test results, they may prescribe doxycycline, an antibiotic, to treat it. 

 

Possible Complications

After recovery from RMSF, you may experience hearing loss, mental disabilities, and nerve damage.

 

Prevention

RMSF does not have a vaccine. It is important to take precautions when you will be in areas that are common with ticks, such as grassy, bushy, or wooded areas. Make sure you check your body and clothing after coming inside. You may also treat your clothing and gear with products that contain 0.5% permethrin.

Other tips to prevent tick bites include: 

  • Walk on clear paths and pavement when in wooded areas if possible.
  • Shower after all outdoor activities.
  • Check pets for ticks and have them treated if needed.

 

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Last Updated: 5/20/24