Colorado tick fever

Alternative names:

American mountain fever; mountain fever; mountain tick fever

Treatment:

Make sure the tick is fully removed from the skin. Take a pain reliever if necessary (do not give aspirin to children; it is associated with Reye's syndrome in some viral illnesses). If complications develop, treatment will be aimed at controlling the symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis):

The disease is usually self-limiting and not dangerous.

Complications:

There is a risk for aseptic meningitis, encephalitis, and hemorrhagic fever. (Note: These rarely occur.)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you are unable to fully remove a tick embedded in the skin, if symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment, or if new symptoms develop.