Rocky Mountain spotted fever

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Definition

Rocky Mountain spotted fever is a potentially serious bacterial infection transmitted to humans by tick bites. The illness is named after the Rocky Mountain region, where the disease was first identified. Rocky Mountain spotted fever occurs when an infected tick attaches to your skin and feeds on your blood. The infection then has the potential to spread to your bloodstream and other areas of your body.

Rocky Mountain spotted fever doesn't spread directly from person to person. If treated promptly, a case of Rocky Mountain spotted fever is usually fairly mild. In a small number of people, the disease can be serious, even fatal, especially in older adults. Because Rocky Mountain spotted fever can progress rapidly to a more widespread infection, prompt treatment is important.

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Symptoms