Rickettsial infections are re-emerging zoonotic bacterial infections in the Indian
subcontinent. This study summarizes the epidemiologic aspects, clinical and laboratory
features of scrub typhus in pediatric patients. Children who presented with fever
for more than 5 days without an identifiable cause were investigated for scrub typhus
by immunoglobulin M enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A total of 72 cases were screened.
Forty-three of them were categorized as probable cases and qualified for specific
antirickettsial therapy. Effective management and early administration of antibiotics
might prevent the complications and mortality associated with scrub typhus.
Keywords
antirickettsial therapy -
Orientia tsutsugamushi
- rickettsial infection - scrub typhus
