Murine typhus is found worldwide. Many cases are relatively mild with clinical features that overlap with other infections. The diagnosis often depends on laboratory testing.
Organism: Rickettsia typhi
Usual host: rat (Rattus species)
Vector: flea (Xenopsylla cheops
Incubation: 6 to 14 days
Common findings:
(1) fever
(2) headache, which may be severe and constant
(3) arthralgia
(4) abdominal pain
(5) confusion
(6) diffuse macular or maculopapular rash (starts on trunk, then spreads to extremities but spares palms and soles)
(7) myalgias
(8) diarrhea
(9) chills
(10) dizziness
(11) anorexia
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