Published on: October 14, 2024

MURINE TYPHUS

MURINE TYPHUS

NEWS – Kerala Man Infected with Murine Typhus

HIGHLIGHTS

  • An infectious disease caused by the flea-borne bacteria Rickettsia typhi.

How Does Murine Typhus Spread?

  • Mechanism: Infection occurs when flea feces come into contact with cuts or mucous membranes.
  • Transmission Characteristics:
    • Not spread person-to-person.
    • Common in coastal tropical and subtropical regions with rodent prevalence.
    • Reported in Northeast India, Madhya Pradesh, and Kashmir.

Symptoms of Murine Typhus

  • Onset: Symptoms appear 7 to 14 days post-exposure.
  • Common Symptoms:
    • Fever
    • Headaches
    • Body aches
    • Joint pains
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Stomach aches
  • Rashes: May develop days after initial symptoms.
  • Duration: Illness lasts up to two weeks; complications can extend for months if untreated.

Treatment for Murine Typhus

  • Vaccine Status: No vaccine currently available.
  • Effective Medication: Antibiotic doxycycline is the recommended treatment.
  • Importance of Early Diagnosis: Timely treatment is crucial to prevent severe outcomes.

Prevention of Murine Typhus

  • Pet Care:
    • Regular washing of pets to keep fleas off.
    • Awareness of signs of fleas.

Flea Treatment: Should be administered as needed to prevent infestation