Relapsing Fever

Relapsing fever is an infectious disease caused by spirochete bacterial species of the Borrelia genus. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of fever, headaches, and muscle, joint, and abdominal pain. The disease is transmitted through the bite of infected lice or soft-bodied ticks. With early diagnosis and treatment, most cases of relapsing fever are curable. People living in close proximity to livestock and people in regions where lice and ticks are prevalent are more likely to be affected.