The CDC has reported three deaths from Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) in the U.S., a tickborne illness known for its rapid progression and high fatality rate. Six cases were identified in California over a six-month period, a notable increase for a state where RMSF is rare.
The affected individuals, mostly female, ranged from 17 months to 65 years old. All had recently traveled to Tecate, Mexico, and came into contact with dogs carrying the brown dog tick, the primary transmitter of RMSF.
RMSF symptoms, including fever and abdominal pain, are difficult to distinguish from other illnesses, complicating diagnosis. The CDC emphasized that doxycycline, the only effective treatment, must be started as soon as the disease is suspected due to its quick progression.
From 2011 to 2019, California averaged just one RMSF case per year, making the recent cluster particularly concerning. The CDC is advising caution for those traveling to affected areas or interacting with dogs in border regions.
This outbreak highlights the growing risks of tickborne illnesses, including Lyme disease, and the critical need for early detection and prevention efforts.
