La Crosse County resident dies from Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, DHS confirms

LA CROSSE COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Wisconsin Department of Health SErvices has confirmed the death of a La Crosse County resident from Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

RMSF is rarely reported in Wisconsin and most commonly occurs in the central and southeastern regions of the United States.

Most tick-borne diseases transmitted in Wisconsin are spread by the black-legged (or deer) tick; RMSF, however, is spread by the bite of the American dog (or wood) tick.

Early symptoms of RMSF can be mild and typically include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, rash, and stomach pain.

If left untreated, however, a RMSF infection can rapidly develop into a serious illness.

“We are saddened to learn of this death and encourage Wisconsin residents to take steps to protect themselves and their families from tick bites while enjoying the outdoors,” said Karen McKeown, State Health Officer.

For more information including how to keep yourself safe, click here.