Walker D. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Chelsea House Publications, 2008. — 96 p.
Rocky Mountain spotted fever is caused by infection with bacteria called Rickettsia rickettsii. Named for its characteristic symptoms of a high fever and severe rash, the disease is spread by ticks, which host the bacteria and transmit it through their bite. Originally, the disease killed up to 90 percent of infected persons. Today it can be successfully treated with antibiotics. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever explains the life cycle and nature of Rickettsia bacteria, the features of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, its history, how it is treated, and what the future holds, from new forms of treatment to its potential use as a weapon of bioterrorism.