SCRUB TYPHUS

Scrub typhus (bush typhus) is a form of typus caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi bacterium. It can be spread to people through bites of infected chiggers (larval mites).

The bacteria can be present anywhere in the world and can infect anyone.

Symptoms usually appear within 10 days of being bitten.

Signs and symptoms may include:

  • Scrub Typhus Eschar
  • Fever and Chills
  • Headache
  • Body Aches and Muscle Pain
  • A Dark, Scab-Like Region at the Site of the Chigger Bite (Also Known as Eschar)
  • Mental Changes, Ranging from Confusion to Coma
  • Enlarged Lymph Nodes
  • Rash

Severe illnesses may develop complications such as organ failure and bleeding if not treated well.

DIAGNOSIS

To diagnose scrub typhus, the doctor must first rule out other conditions that may cause your symptoms.

He or she may:

  • Ask if you have recently travelled.
  • May order blood tests to look for scrub typhus or other diseases.
  • Perform laboratory testing.

 

TREATMENT

Antibiotics (Doxycycline) are usually given to treat scrub typhus. It is believed to be most effective if given to a person before his or her symptoms appear.

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