Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) 🏞️🕷️
What is it?
RMSF is a serious illness caused by bacteria called Rickettsia rickettsii, spread through the bite of infected ticks 🕷️.
How do you get it?
- Tick bites during outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or gardening 🌲🥾
- Ticks latch onto skin and transmit the bacteria
Symptoms 😷
- High fever 🌡️
- Severe headache 🤕
- Muscle aches 💪
- Rash (usually starts as small spots and spreads) 🌶️🩸
- Nausea and vomiting 🤢
- Confusion or irritability 🧠
- Joint pain 🤕
Important!
If untreated, RMSF can cause serious complications like damage to organs (heart, kidneys) and can be fatal ⚠️.
Diagnosis & Treatment 💉
- Diagnosed by symptoms, history of tick exposure, and blood tests 🩸
- Treated with antibiotics (usually doxycycline) 💊
- Early treatment is crucial!
Prevention Tips 🛡️
- Use insect repellent with DEET 🧴
- Wear long sleeves and pants outdoors 👕👖
- Check for ticks after being outside 🔍
- Remove ticks promptly with tweezers ✂️