A MITE-BORNE BACTERIAL INFECTION
Scrub Typhus
A mite-borne bacterial infection causing fever, rash, headache, body pain and a characteristic eschar mark, treatable with targeted antibiotic therapy. Severe cases need hospital care.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Scrub Typhus
Scrub typhus is a bacterial infection caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, transmitted to humans through the bite of infected larval mites called chiggers. The infection is common in parts of India, particularly during the monsoon and post-monsoon months and in rural or forested areas. The illness typically begins with a sudden high fever, severe headache, body aches, rash and a characteristic painless ulcer (eschar) at the site of the bite. If not diagnosed and treated promptly, scrub typhus can progress to severe forms involving the lungs, liver, kidneys, brain and heart. Early targeted antibiotic therapy leads to rapid recovery in most patients. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides complete scrub typhus care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Bite from a chigger infected with Orientia tsutsugamushi
- Exposure to grassland, scrub vegetation or forested areas
- Outdoor work or activities in endemic regions
- Monsoon and post-monsoon period (peak transmission)
- Inadequate use of protective clothing during outdoor exposure
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Specific blood tests for scrub typhus, supported by clinical features and eschar detection
Targeted antibiotic therapy with rapid response
Can affect lungs, liver, kidneys, brain and heart if untreated
Most patients improve within 48 hours of starting the right antibiotic
Protective clothing, insect repellents and avoiding sitting on grass in endemic areas
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Targeted Antibiotic Therapy
The most effective treatment for scrub typhus is a specific antibiotic chosen for this infection. Started early, it leads to rapid improvement within 48 hours and prevents serious complications.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews the fever pattern, exposure history and symptoms, examines for eschar and rash, and orders specific blood tests.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created based on severity, organ involvement and the patient's overall condition.
- 3
Medical Management
Targeted antibiotic therapy, supportive care, fluids and monitoring for complications; ICU care in severe disease.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Follow-up to confirm full recovery and provide preventive guidance for those in high-risk environments.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Targeted Antibiotic Therapy
A specific antibiotic is used for scrub typhus, with rapid clinical response when started early.
Alternative Antibiotic Regimen Where Indicated
Alternative antibiotic options are available for patients who cannot receive first-line therapy.
Supportive Care
Hydration, fever control, rest and symptom relief support recovery during the acute illness.
Monitoring for Complications
Close monitoring of lungs, liver, kidneys and other organs helps detect complications early in severe cases.
Patient Education on Prevention
Counselling on protective clothing, insect repellents and avoiding high-risk vegetation in endemic areas.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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