Where do most cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever occur?

Most cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) are primarily reported in the Southeast and South-central regions of the United States. This disease is caused by the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks, particularly the American dog tick and the Rocky Mountain wood tick. The prevalence of these tick species is higher in the Southeast and South-central areas, making these regions hotspots for RMSF.

Additionally, the climatic and environmental conditions in these regions, such as humid subtropical weather, provide ideal habitats for tick populations. Understanding the geographic distribution of RMSF is crucial for public health efforts to implement preventative measures, including awareness campaigns, tick control strategies, and targeted interventions in areas where the disease is most common. This regional focus aids in the effective allocation of resources and improves early detection efforts in affected populations.