Murine typhus

Definition

Murine typhus is a bacterial infection caused by Rickettsia typhi, transmitted to humans via the bite of infected fleas. It primarily affects the circulatory and lymphatic systems, leading to symptoms such as fever, headache, and rash.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Murine typhus is endemic in areas with poor sanitation where rodents are prevalent.
2. The primary vectors for murine typhus are fleas, especially those found on rats.
3. Symptoms typically appear within 1-2 weeks after exposure and include fever, chills, headache, and muscle pain.
4. Diagnosis is often confirmed through serological tests detecting specific antibodies against Rickettsia typhi.
5. Treatment usually involves antibiotics such as doxycycline or chloramphenicol.

Review Questions

• What organism causes murine typhus and how is it transmitted?
• Describe the common symptoms associated with murine typhus.
• Which diagnostic methods are used to confirm a case of murine typhus?

Related terms

Rickettsia typhi: A gram-negative bacterium responsible for causing murine typhus.

Flea vector: An organism that transmits pathogens from one host to another; in this case, fleas transmit Rickettsia typhi.

Doxycycline: An antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections including murine typhus.