Mountain Fever Madness

Mountain Fever: A Comprehensive Guide to Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Introduction

Mountain fever, also known as Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), is a bacterial infection transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. It is a potentially serious illness that can lead to life-threatening complications if not treated promptly. Mountain fever is primarily found in the southeastern United States and Mexico, but cases have also been reported in other parts of North America and the world.

Symptoms

The symptoms of mountain fever typically appear within 2-14 days after the tick bite. The most common initial symptoms include:

• High fever (102°F or higher)
• Severe headache
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain

As the disease progresses, a characteristic rash develops. The rash typically appears on the wrists, ankles, and palms, and may spread to other parts of the body. The rash is initially pink or red, but it gradually turns dark red or purple and may become crusty or scaly.

Other symptoms that may develop include:

• Confusion
• Delirium
• Seizures
• Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eyes)
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Causes

Mountain fever is caused by the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. The blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) is the primary vector for RMSF in the eastern United States, while the Rocky Mountain wood tick (Dermacentor andersoni) is the main vector in the western United States.

Risk Factors

Anyone who spends time in areas where ticks are present is at risk for mountain fever. However, certain factors can increase the risk, including:

• Spending time in wooded or grassy areas
• Participating in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or fishing
• Not using insect repellent or wearing protective clothing
• Living in or visiting areas where RMSF is common

Diagnosis

Mountain fever can be difficult to diagnose, as it can mimic other illnesses such as Lyme disease and flu. Early diagnosis is essential for prompt treatment and to reduce the risk of complications.

The diagnosis of RMSF is based on the patient’s symptoms, the presence of a tick bite, and laboratory tests. Blood tests can detect antibodies to Rickettsia rickettsii and confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Mountain fever is treated with antibiotics, typically doxycycline. Treatment should be started as soon as possible after diagnosis to prevent complications. Most patients respond well to antibiotics and recover within a few weeks.

Complications

If left untreated, mountain fever can lead to serious complications, including:

• Meningitis (inflammation of the brain and spinal cord)
• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
• Pneumonitis (inflammation of the lungs)
• Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)
• Kidney failure
• Death

Prevention

The following measures can help prevent mountain fever:

• Avoid areas where ticks are present, especially during peak season (spring and summer)
• Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535
• Wear light-colored clothing with long sleeves and pants when outdoors
• Tuck your pants into your socks and wear closed-toe shoes
• Check yourself and your pets for ticks after spending time outdoors
• Remove ticks promptly and properly (use tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull straight up)

Outlook

With prompt diagnosis and treatment, most people with mountain fever make a full recovery. However, complications can occur, especially in those who do not receive treatment early.

Additional Information

• Mountain fever is a notifiable disease in the United States, which means that healthcare providers are required to report cases to public health authorities.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides additional information and resources on RMSF at https://www.cdc.gov/rmsf/.
• The National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) provides information for local health departments on RMSF at https://www.naccho.org/topics/programs/environmental-health/vector-borne-diseases/rocky-mountain-spotted-fever.