Let's learn about Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF), a dangerous fever transmitted by fleas

Have you ever been out for a walk in the woods, or played with your pet dog or cat, and suddenly felt sick and had a high fever a few days later? Along with that, do you have a headache and body aches? Usually, we think, 'This is a viral fever.' However, if you have the slightest suspicion that you have been bitten by an animal like a tick, this may not be something to be taken lightly. Today we are talking about a disease transmitted by such ticks, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly and properly. That is Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, or RMSF for short.

Simply put, what is Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF)?

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is an infection caused by a bacteria called `(Rickettsia rickettsii)`. Just as the dengue virus enters our body through a mosquito, this `R. rickettsii` bacteria enters our body through the bite of an infected tick.

The biggest problem with this is that in the early days, the symptoms are very similar to those of a common cold or a viral fever. Many people don't think it's serious because of things like fever, headache, and body aches. But if treatment is delayed, it can become very serious.

Who is most at risk of developing this disease?

In fact, anyone who is exposed to fleas can get the disease. Fleas can live in tall grass, in wooded areas, and on our pets playing outside. The disease has been reported in many countries around the world.

However, if some people get this disease, it is at higher risk of becoming severe. Let's see who they are.

What really happens when the disease enters the body?

Imagine that an infected flea bites you. The flea's saliva carries the bacteria `R. rickettsii` into your bloodstream. From there, the bacteria's main target is our blood vessels .

Simply put, this bacteria damages the walls of our blood vessels. Just like a water pipe gets small holes, when this bacteria damages our blood vessels, they start leaking blood and fluids into the surrounding tissues. This is what causes the symptoms. This leakage can damage our muscles, nerves, and vital organs like the brain and kidneys.

What are the symptoms? How do we recognize them?

Symptoms can appear within two days to two weeks after a flea bite. These can be divided into early symptoms and later symptoms that develop as the disease progresses.

How does the doctor diagnose the disease?

When you go to the doctor, the first thing he does is ask you questions.

• What are your symptoms and how long have you had them?
• Have you recently walked in a forest, in a place with tall grass?
• Are there any pets at home?
• Have you seen a flea hanging somewhere on your body?

Based on your answers to these questions, your doctor will examine you. If your symptoms suggest that this could be RMSF, treatment can be started.

There are blood tests and sometimes a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. However, the results of these tests can take 7 to 10 days to come back. Because the disease is so serious, your doctor will not wait for the results. If your symptoms and the information you provide suggest that you have RMSF, treatment will begin immediately.

What are the treatments? How long does it take to recover?

The best and only recommended treatment for RMSF is antibiotics . The antibiotic used specifically for this is `( Doxycycline (

• It's important to start early: Treatment is most effective when started within the first 5 days of symptoms.
• Complete: You usually have to take this medicine for 7-10 days. Even if you feel better in two or three days, you should take the medicine for the full number of days prescribed by the doctor. Otherwise, the illness may come back.
• Severe cases: If the disease is severe, you may need to be hospitalized and treated. You may also need to receive intravenous antibiotics and other treatments (such as mechanical ventilation).

If you start treatment properly , you will start feeling better within 48 hours.

How can you protect yourself from this disease?

There is no vaccine for this disease, so the best thing to do is to avoid flea bites. There are a few things you can do to prevent this.

• Keep your garden and yard clean: Tall grass and bushes are good places for fleas to live. So keep your yard grass trimmed and tidy.
• Stay safe when going into the woods: If you are going to walk in the woods or bush, dress as much as possible in clothing that covers your body. Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes, and socks. It is even better if you can tuck your pants into your socks.
• Use insect repellents: Use repellents that repel insects like fleas. Those containing DEET are best. There are also special sprays that you can apply to clothing.
• Check your body after you go outside: After you come home from being outside, especially in grassy areas, check your entire body for fleas. Pay special attention to areas like your armpits, groin, head, behind your ears, and belly button.
• Protect your pets: Protect your pets, such as dogs and cats, from fleas. Consult a veterinarian and use the necessary medications and belts properly. Check their bodies after letting them out.

When should I see a doctor? Should I go to the ETU?

This is a very important issue, because timely action can save a life.