Scientists from the University of North Carolina have identified a new species of Rickettsia tick-borne bacteria, Rickettsia finnyi, which has caused severe illness and death in dogs in the United States. The pathogen is related to the causative agent of Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
According to research published in the journal Emerging Infectious Diseases, since 2020, the infection has been detected in 19 dogs, primarily from the Southeast and Midwest of the country. The disease causes high fever, lethargy, and a decrease in platelets. Although most animals were treated with antibiotics, several dogs died.
Scientists emphasize that bacteria of this genus are often dangerous to humans as well, so the new species “should always be considered potentially pathogenic” to people. The presumed vector is the lone star tick. Researchers urge careful monitoring to prevent potential human infections.
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