LANSING (WKZO-AM) — Michigan health officials have confirmed the first case of Rocky Mountain spotted fever they have seen since 2009 in a child in Cass County.
The bacterial infection, which is transmitted by ticks, can be fatal if not treated promptly and correctly. There is a treatment available, the antibiotic doxycycline, but it must be applied immediately.
Officials with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services beleive the tick species that transmitted the bacteria is Dermacentor Variabilis, the dog tick, which is quite common in Michigan.
Tick bite victims should watch for fever, abdominal pain, vomiting and muscle pain, and seek medical treatment immediately if they occur. A few days later, rashes will appear in many cases, but not all.
Spokesperson Angela Minicuci said, as with any other tick borne disease, the best way to avoid the disease is to stay away from ticks and tick infested areas. She recommends if you do spend time in the outdoors to use insect repellants with the ingredient DEET be applied.
There are also flea and tick products that can be used for pets. They can bring the insects into your home, and should also be inspected after they go out.
A shower soon after returning home can also give you a chance to wash off any pests and do a more thorough inspection.
Tumble-drying clothes can kill any pests that may be hiding there.
The press release offers no current information on the condition of the child that contracted the bacteria.
