South Dakota

Relapsing Fever in South Dakota

Relapsing Fever is an acute bacterial infection caused by *Borrelia* spirochetes, characterized by recurring episodes of high fever separated by periods of remission. It primarily affects individuals in areas with poor hygiene, developing regions, or those exposed to infected ticks or lice. Track Relapsing Fever activity and outbreaks specific to South Dakota.

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What is Relapsing Fever?

Relapsing Fever has been recognized for centuries, historically linked to epidemics during wars and famines. The causative *Borrelia* spirochetes were first observed in patient blood by *Otto Obermeier* in 1868, distinguishing it from other febrile illnesses like typhus.

Symptoms

  • Sudden onset of high fever (often >104°F / 40°C)
  • Chills and severe headache
  • Muscle and joint aches (myalgia and arthralgia)
  • Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
  • Cycles of fever followed by periods of remission (days to weeks), then relapses (usually milder but recurring)

Transmission

Relapsing Fever is primarily transmitted through vectors. *Louse-borne relapsing fever (LBRF)* spreads when infected body lice are crushed on the skin, and the bacteria enter through broken skin. *Tick-borne relapsing fever (TBRF)* is transmitted through the bite of infected soft-bodied *Ornithodoros* ticks, which typically feed at night.

Contagious Period: Varies by disease

Prevention

  • Avoid contact with ticks and lice; use insect repellents (e.g., DEET or permethrin-treated clothing) in endemic areas.
  • Inspect skin and clothing for ticks after outdoor activities and remove them promptly and correctly.
  • Maintain good personal hygiene and sanitation, especially in crowded conditions or where lice infestation is a risk.
  • Control rodent populations around homes, as they can be hosts for infected ticks.

South Dakota Health Resources

Local health department information and state-specific prevention guidance

We're Monitoring South Dakota

Our AI-powered surveillance continuously monitors Relapsing Fever activity across South Dakota. We track data from state health departments, local hospitals, CDC reports, and 50+ global health sources to provide early warning of emerging threats.

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South Dakota Health Department

For official state health alerts, vaccination locations, and public health guidance specific to South Dakota, visit your state health department's website.

→ South Dakota Department of Health → Find Relapsing Fever Vaccination Near You → CDC Travel Health Notices

Protecting Yourself in South Dakota

Whether you live in South Dakota, are traveling there, or have family in the state, understanding Relapsing Fever prevention is essential. Follow these evidence-based prevention measures:

Prevention Measures

  • Avoid contact with ticks and lice; use insect repellents (e.g., DEET or permethrin-treated clothing) in endemic areas.
  • Inspect skin and clothing for ticks after outdoor activities and remove them promptly and correctly.
  • Maintain good personal hygiene and sanitation, especially in crowded conditions or where lice infestation is a risk.
  • Control rodent populations around homes, as they can be hosts for infected ticks.

When to Seek Care

If you experience symptoms of Relapsing Fever in South Dakota, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes significantly.

Emergency symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Expert Resources & References

Trusted information from leading health organizations

CDC

Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

View CDC Resources →

WHO

Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization

View WHO Resources →

Research

Latest peer-reviewed research and clinical studies

View Research →

Medically Reviewed Content

Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-03

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