Rickettsial pox

Definition

Rickettsial pox is a zoonotic disease caused by Rickettsia akari, transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mite. It presents with fever, rash, and eschar at the site of the bite.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rickettsial pox is primarily transmitted by the bite of an infected mite from the house mouse.
2. The causative agent is Rickettsia akari, a type of bacteria.
3. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, rash, and an eschar (dark scab) where the mite bit.
4. The disease is generally mild and self-limiting but can be treated effectively with antibiotics like doxycycline.
5. Outbreaks are more common in urban areas with high rodent populations.

Review Questions

Related terms

Zoonosis:

A disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

Eschar: A dark scab or falling away of dead skin, often seen at the site of a mite bite in rickettsial diseases.

Doxycycline:

An antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections including rickettsial diseases.