Tuesday - May 07, 2024
Champaign-Urbana Public Health District Advises Residents to Stay Vigilant in Their Efforts to Combat the Spread of Tick-Borne Illnesses
CHAMPAIGN, IL - The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) has confirmed a recent case of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) in an individual in Champaign County.
RMSF is a tickborne illness transmitted in Illinois primarily by the American dog tick and is caused by the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii. The disease can be fatal if not promptly and properly treated, even among individuals previously considered healthy. Symptom onset is one to four days and includes high fever, severe headache, muscle soreness, gastrointestinal distress, and swelling around the eyes and back of hands. Additionally, a distinct rash may emerge several days after onset, typically appearing as small, flat, pink spots initially located on the wrists, forearms, and ankles, which can extend to the trunk and occasionally manifest on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. It is important to note that some individuals may not present with the rash at all, or the rash may have an atypical appearance. RMSF is not transmitted person-to-person.
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