RMSF is most commonly reported in which US regions?

RMSF is most commonly reported in which US regions?

• A. South central and southeastern United States
• B. New England
• C. Pacific Northwest
• D. Midwest

Answer: (A)

RMSF risk tracks where its tick vectors are most common. In the United States, the highest number of reported cases comes from the southeastern and south-central states, where Dermacentor ticks that transmit Rickettsia ricketii are abundant in rural, grassy, and wooded areas and are active in spring and early summer. Exposure to these ticks during outdoor activities in these regions increases the likelihood of infection, which is why this area has the greatest disease burden. While cases can occur elsewhere, the southeast and south-central states remain the region most commonly affected. Clinicians should have a high suspicion for RMSF in patients with fever and rash from these regions and start doxycycline promptly, as early treatment improves outcomes.

RMSF risk tracks where its tick vectors are most common. In the United States, the highest number of reported cases comes from the southeastern and south-central states, where Dermacentor ticks that transmit Rickettsia ricketii are abundant in rural, grassy, and wooded areas and are active in spring and early summer. Exposure to these ticks during outdoor activities in these regions increases the likelihood of infection, which is why this area has the greatest disease burden. While cases can occur elsewhere, the southeast and south-central states remain the region most commonly affected. Clinicians should have a high suspicion for RMSF in patients with fever and rash from these regions and start doxycycline promptly, as early treatment improves outcomes.