Ornithodoros hermsi

Definition

Ornithodoros hermsi is a species of soft tick known to be a vector for Borrelia hermsii, the causative agent of tick-borne relapsing fever. These ticks primarily reside in rodent burrows and can transmit infection to humans through their bite.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ornithodoros hermsi is an important vector for Borrelia hermsii, which causes tick-borne relapsing fever.
2. They are soft ticks, differentiating them from the more commonly known hard ticks like Ixodes scapularis.
3. The lifecycle of Ornithodoros hermsi involves multiple nymphal stages before reaching adulthood, and they can live for many years without feeding.
4. Infection occurs when the tick bites a host, injecting spirochetes into the bloodstream.
5. These ticks are typically found in higher altitude regions of the western United States and parts of Canada.

Review Questions

• What pathogen is transmitted by Ornithodoros hermsi?
• How does Ornithodoros hermsi differ from hard ticks?
• In what type of environment are you most likely to find Ornithodoros hermsi?

Related terms

Borrelia hermsii: A spirochete bacterium transmitted by Ornithodoros hermsi that causes tick-borne relapsing fever.

Tick-borne relapsing fever: An infectious disease characterized by recurring episodes of fever, headache, muscle pain caused by Borrelia species.

Spirochetes: A group of motile bacteria with a distinctive helical shape, including pathogens like Borrelia.