Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

What is Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever?

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) is another form of bacterial infection which is transmitted by tick bites.

The disease is caused by the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii. It usually occurs between April and September and is most common in southeastern states (Virginia, Georgia, and the Carolinas), but has been found along the entire East Coast and further west, in Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.

Unlike Lyme disease, which is spread by deer ticks, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is spread by dog ticks and wood ticks.

The time it takes from getting a tick bite to having an infection is 1 to 2 weeks.

This disease cannot be transmitted from person to another.

Treatment / What you should do

If you think your child has signs of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever after a tick bite, you should consult your doctor right away.

The diagnosis is made by taking a blood sample. The treatment includes an antibiotic for 7 to 10 days.

If your child is treated at home, it is important that you give antibiotics according to the doctor's directions.

Consult your doctor again if your child's condition does not get better within a couple of days or if he seems to be getting worse despite the treatment.

If your child shows any signs of complications, he may have to be treated in the hospital with intravenous antibiotics.

Prevention

The best way to avoid tick-borne diseases is to avoid ticks.

When spending time outdoors, try to avoid tall grass and bushes. Wear shoes, socks and long light-colored pants. It is easier to see ticks against lighter clothing. Tuck pants legs inside socks to keep ticks out. Use an insect repellent according to the directions on the label.

Check your pet, yourself and your child after spending time where ticks may live for any ticks on the body, scalp or clothing.

Therefore, it is always important to do "tick checks" each day on yourself and especially your children.

If your pet spends a lot of time outside, consult your vet about possible tick protection for animals.