<unk>  <unk>  is a bacterial infection spread by the bite of a tick. Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle pain, and a rash. At the site of the bite there is typically a red skin sore with a dark center. The onset of symptoms usually occurs 4–10 days after the bite. Complications are rare, but may include joint inflammation. Some people do not develop symptoms. Tick bite fever is caused by the bacterium Rickettsia<unk> . The bacterium is spread by ticks of the Amblyomma type. These generally live in tall grass or bush rather than in cities. The diagnosis is typically based on symptoms. It can be confirmed by culture, PCR, or immunofluorescence. There is no vaccine. Prevention is by avoiding tick bites by covering the skin, using DEET, or using permethrin treated clothing. Evidence regarding treatment, however, is limited. The antibiotic doxycycline appears useful. Chloramphenicol or azithromycin may also be used. The disease will also tend to resolve without treatment. The disease occurs in sub-Saharan<unk>  the West Indies, and Oceania. It is relatively common among travelers to sub-Saharan<unk>  Most infections occur between November and April. Outbreaks of the disease may occur. The earliest descriptions of the condition are believed to be from 1911.<unk>  is a type of spotted fever. It has previously been confused with Mediterranean spotted fever.
African tick bite fever
American tick bite fever
Rat-bite fever
Spondweni fever
Scabies
Colorado tick fever
Sandfly fever
Pacific Coast tick fever