North Carolina and the Dangers of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

While the name Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever may lead you to assume that this disease is the most prevalent in the western portion of the United States, this simply is not true. In fact, North Carolina regularly ranks as one of the states with the most reported cases in the United States each year.

Symptoms of Rocky Mountain Tick Fever

Initial symptoms include a severe headache, joint pain, muscle aches, stomach issues, fever and lack of appetite. These symptoms usually begin anywhere from two days to two weeks after a bite. A rash will appear between two to five days after the onset of the symptoms. The rash consists of small flat pink spots that will appear around the wrists, forearms and ankles. It can spread to the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. See the rash pictured above. 

Treatment for Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Fortunately, there is a treatment available for Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Antibiotics can clear up the symptoms and the disease. It is important to seek treatment right away because there can be serious complications if you do not treat for the disease. You may also end up in the hospital if not treated early enough.

Preventing Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

If you can find the tick within the first 6-12 hours of it attaching, you are less likely to contract Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Regularly checking for ticks can help. It is also important to wear DEET when going into areas with a lot of ticks, as well as tucking your shirt in and tucking your pants into your socks. 

Ticks are not only found out in the woods, but they can also be found in and around your yard. There are steps you can take to reduce ticks in your yard including keeping your grass cut short and free from debris. Additionally, you may want to consider treating your yard for ticks. This can reduce the chance of you or a family member contradicting the disease and allow you to rest easy when you send your children out to play. Contact Mosquito Tek to learn more about available tick control services.

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