What Is Microbiology - Epidemic Typhus

Epidemic typhus 

Epidemic typhus is caused by rickettsia prowazekii. 

The common signs and symptoms of epidemic typhus may include acute onset of fever, myalgia and  the eruption of petechial rash on the trunks and later spread to the limbs. 

Epidemic typhus may not affecting the sole of the feet and palms of the hands.   

Rickettsia prowazekii is a gram negative rod. Serological testing is useful in detecting the present of rickettsia prowazekii which is also an obligate intracellular parasites. 

The common mode of transmission may include the bites from squirrel fleas or human body louse. 

The complication of epidemic typhus may include meningoencephalitis. 

The treatment may include delousing and antibiotic therapy such as chloramphenicol and tetracycline.