Quebec has confirmed a case of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, a potentially fatal tick-borne disease likely contracted in Ontario or Quebec. The disease was also seen in dogs in Ontario earlier this year.
Rocky Mountain spotted fever is caused by the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii, first discovered in the Rocky Mountain valleys of Idaho and Montana in the 1890s. Symptoms in humans may include fever, headache, nausea, stomach pain, muscle pain, and loss of appetite. A distinct red rash typically appears two to four days after the onset of fever, varying from pinpoint dots to red splotches.
Treatment for the disease involves the use of the antibiotic doxycycline, with most individuals experiencing a full recovery. However, even with treatment, the disease can be fatal in 5-10% of cases in the U.S., according to the Cleveland Clinic. Untreated, one in four individuals may succumb to the disease.
Dogs can also contract Rocky Mountain spotted fever, displaying symptoms such as fever, malaise, enlarged lymph nodes, loss of appetite, and muscle aches. The disease can be fatal in dogs, with reports of fatalities, including the death of a dog in Ontario due to the infection.
The disease is transmitted through tick bites, primarily by the American dog tick (Demacentor variabilis), commonly found from eastern Alberta to Nova Scotia, especially in the southern regions of these provinces.
Ticks can transmit the disease to a range of large mammals, including humans, contrary to its name indicating a specific target. American dog ticks were previously not a concern for Lyme disease transmission, unlike blacklegged or deer ticks. However, changing perspectives on the potential risks associated with these ticks have emerged due to their expanding habitats.
While the disease is more prevalent in the U.S., Canada has also reported cases, with sporadic instances across the country. Climate change, resulting in milder winters and hotter, drier summers, has facilitated the spread of the disease into previously unaffected regions.
It is crucial for individuals and pet owners to take preventive measures against tick bites, such as staying on trails, wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and conducting thorough tick checks after outdoor activities. Prompt removal of ticks is essential to reduce the risk of transmission.
Healthcare professionals should be vigilant about tick-borne diseases beyond Lyme, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever, to ensure early detection and treatment. Individuals experiencing symptoms after potential exposure to ticks should promptly inform their healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management.
While these diseases remain rare in Canada, awareness and precautionary measures are vital, especially in areas where tick populations are prevalent. Vigilance and prompt action can help mitigate the risks associated with tick-borne illnesses.