In addition to the star tick, the disease can also be transmitted by the brown tick, which is common in pets.
The death of five Rocky Mountain people from spotted fever in Campinas (SP) has left the whole country on alert and with doubts about the disease. Transmitted by the star tick, the parasite can be found in large animals, capybaras, opossums, rabbits, among others. However, what many people don’t know is that this problem can also affect e hit petslike dogs.
And this is because, according to veterinarian Márcio Barboza, Rocky Mountain spotted fever can also be transmitted through the brown check mark, which is a common species among pets. Therefore, it is important to better understand the disease and ways to prevent and protect animals, especially dogs.
Understanding Rocky Mountain spotted fever in humans
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is a disease caused by such bacteria rickettsiatransmitted by the bite of infected ticks of the species Amblyomma sculptumpopularly known as the star tick, Blood ricepiphalusthe brown dog tick e Amblyomma aureolatum. From an epidemiological point of view, the main thing is the A. sculptor. In humans, the first symptoms appear 2 to 14 days after the bite. In the vast majority of cases, seven days later. The warning signs for the disease are:
- High fever;
- body pain;
- heachache;
- discouragement;
- lack of appetite; AND
- appearance of small red spots.
The manifestation of the disease in pets
Márcio, who is also the technical manager of pets at MSD Saúde Animal, explains that, just like humans, pets are also susceptible to Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The main symptoms manifested by dogs are lethargy, weight loss, bleeding lesions, body swelling, vomiting and diarrhea.
“If your pet is showing any of these signs, it’s important to visit your veterinarian immediately, who is the best person to analyze, identify, and indicate the appropriate treatment,” the vet guides.
Prevent Rocky Mountain spotted fever in pets
The expert also reiterates that the brown tick can act as a vector of Rocky Mountain spotted fever not only for pets but also for humans. “Dog ticks can, yes, carry Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and few people know about it. Giving an ectoparasiticidal (against fleas and ticks) medicine is simple and should be a habit, as it helps protect pets and the family of different diseases, such as the famous ‘tick disease.’ Therefore, it is very important that tutors bet on these products as a preventive measure,” says Márcio.
In this sense, it is worth paying attention to the choice of ectoparasiticide, understanding the additional benefits it brings. The vet, for example, recommends Bravecto for the shelf life of the product, up to twelve weeks in a single dose.
“In addition, the brand offers a service, the Bravecto Guarantee, which offers financial support to cover any costs of pets that could become ill from flea and tick-borne diseases, which includes visits, diagnostic tests and treatments, including fever speckled.”, he concludes.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
