ENDEMIC (MURINE) TYPHUS FEVER: CLINICAL OBSERVATIONS OF 180 CASES

Abstract

This paper summarizes in detail the clinical observations of 180 cases of endemic (murine) typhus fever observed in Charity Hospital at New Orleans, from Jan. 1, 1929, to Dec. 31, 1944. Data are presented to suggest that the incidence of endemic (murine) typhus in southern and southeastern U. S. has increased markedly since 1939. Typhus may be confused with and should be considered in a large variety of acute infectious diseases. Thus, 75% of the authors'' cases were admitted with diagnoses other than typhus. The criteria for both clinical and laboratory diagnoses are outlined in detail. Mortality is < 1%, in fact, none of this series of 180 cases died. Few or no sequelae remain following recovery. There is no effective or specific treatment but attention to adequate fluids and nutrition is essential.