What is Scrub Typhus and How is it Caused?

October 8, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in Nutrition Facts

Scrub typhus, also known as bush typhus or tsutsugamushi disease, is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected larval mites (chiggers), usually belonging to the genus Leptotrombidium.

Causes of Scrub Typhus:

  1. Bacterial Infection:
    • The causative agent of scrub typhus is the bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi, which belongs to the family Rickettsiaceae.
  2. Transmission:
    • Humans contract scrub typhus when they are bitten by mites (chiggers) that are infected with the Orientia tsutsugamushi bacterium.
    • These mites typically reside in rural and forested areas, particularly in regions of Asia, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Australia.
  3. Mite Infestation:
    • Chiggers (larval mites) become infected with the Orientia tsutsugamushi bacterium after feeding on rodents or other small mammals that carry the bacteria.
  4. Inoculation during Feeding:
    • When an infected chigger bites a human and feeds, it injects the bacteria into the skin through its saliva.
  5. Humans as Incidental Hosts:
    • Humans are incidental hosts in the life cycle of the mite, as the bacterium does not effectively multiply within humans.

Common Symptoms of Scrub Typhus:

Symptoms of scrub typhus can vary in severity, and some individuals may experience mild symptoms or be asymptomatic. Common symptoms include:

  • Fever and Chills: High fever is a hallmark symptom, often accompanied by chills.
  • Headache: Intense headaches are a common symptom.
  • Muscle Aches and Joint Pain: Severe muscle aches and joint pain may occur.
  • Lymph Node Swelling: Enlargement of lymph nodes, particularly in the neck, armpits, or groin.
  • Rash: A characteristic rash, often red or pink and with small raised lesions, typically appears a few days after the onset of fever.
  • Fatigue: Extreme fatigue and weakness may be present.
  • Respiratory Symptoms: Cough, difficulty breathing, or other respiratory symptoms in severe cases.
  • Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain can occur.

Early detection and appropriate treatment with antibiotics, such as doxycycline, are essential to manage scrub typhus effectively and prevent complications. If you suspect you have scrub typhus or have been exposed to affected areas, seek prompt medical attention for diagnosis and treatment.

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