Relapsing fever

Treatment:

The infection is treated with antibiotics, including tetracycline or erythromycin.

Note: oral tetracycline is usually not prescribed for children until after all the permanent teeth have erupted; it can permanently discolor teeth that are still forming.

Expectations (prognosis):

Without therapy, the death rate can be as high as 40%. With treatment, mortality is about 5%.

Complications:

Herxheimer's reaction during antibiotic therapy is a possible complication.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have a fever or feel unwell and you suspect tick exposure.