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Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a tickborne viral disease associated with acute fever, possibly accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, myalgia, and leukocytopenia (1). Most reports of infection have [...]

Background: In urban Thailand, arboviral infections dominate diagnoses of acute undifferentiated fevers (AUFs) owing to their well-defined epidemiology and characteristic clinical presentations. However, rickettsial diseases, also endemic in this setting, remain under-recognized owing to challenges in early detection. Objective: This study aimed to identify potential rickettsial infections among patients with AUF in Bangkok and vicinity utilizing leftover nucleic acid extracted from serum samples from patients initially suspected of but negative for arbovirus infections. Materials and Methods: A total of 609 nucleic acid samples were screened for rickettsial bacteria using real-time PCR, targeting the 17-kDa common antigen gene of Rickettsia spp. and the 47-kDa gene of Orientia tsutsugamushi. Results: Nine samples were positive for Rickettsia spp. and two were positive for O. tsutsugamushi. DNA sequence and phylogenetic analyses based on partial 17-kDa antigen and citrate synthase (gltA) genes identified the Rickettsia-positive samples as R. typhi in eight cases and R. felis in one case. Analysis of the 56-kDa type-specific antigen gene identified the two O. tsutsugamushi isolates as Gilliam-related genotypes. Although rickettsial diseases typically present with mild symptoms, two patients with R. typhi infection (murine typhus) developed respiratory distress syndrome, highlighting the potential for rare but serious complications. Conclusion: This study underscores the critical importance of differential diagnosis and prompt, effective intervention to prevent complications in suspected cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infection with severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) virus, which can cause hemorrhagic febrile illness, is often transmitted by ticks. We identified 3 patients with SFTS in or near Bangkok, Thailand. Our results underscore a need for heightened awareness by clinicians of possible SFTS virus, even in urban centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]