Pestis minor
Chapter 1:Certain infectious and parasitic diseases
ICD-10 A20.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pestis minor.
Pestis minor, also known as murine typhus, is a zoonotic infection caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, primarily transmitted to humans through flea bites from infected rodents, particularly rats. This condition is characterized by mild febrile illness, often presenting with symptoms such as fever, headache, malaise, and rash. Unlike the more severe forms of plague, Pestis minor typically has a lower mortality rate and is less virulent. The disease is endemic in certain regions, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and high rodent populations. Public health measures focus on controlling rodent populations and flea infestations to prevent outbreaks. Surveillance and prompt treatment with antibiotics are crucial for managing cases effectively. Understanding the transmission vectors and the ecological factors that contribute to the spread of this disease is essential for healthcare providers and public health officials alike.
Detailed patient history including exposure risks, symptom onset, and treatment response.
Patients presenting with fever and rash after potential exposure to rodents.
Consideration of differential diagnoses and co-infections with other zoonotic diseases.
Surveillance data on rodent populations and flea control measures.
Outbreak investigations in communities with reported cases.
Focus on preventive measures and community education.
Used when confirming diagnosis through laboratory testing.
Document the source of the culture and clinical symptoms.
Infectious disease specialists should ensure proper specimen handling.
Common symptoms include mild fever, headache, malaise, and rash, often following exposure to infected rodents or fleas.
Pestis minor is primarily transmitted through flea bites from infected rodents, particularly rats.
