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Scrub typhus, Republic of Palau

Linda J Demma1, Jennifer H McQuiston, William L Nicholson

  • 1Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30333, USA. ldemma@cdc.gov

Emerging Infectious Diseases
|February 24, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Scrub typhus, a mite-borne illness caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, appears endemic in Palau. Studies show significant antibody prevalence in both human and rodent populations, indicating widespread distribution.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology
  • Medical Entomology

Background:

  • Scrub typhus is a severe febrile illness caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi.
  • Transmission occurs via trombiculid mites, typically feeding on rodents.
  • Palau experienced its first known scrub typhus outbreak from 2001-2003.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the geographic distribution and prevalence of scrub typhus in Palau.
  • To assess antibody titers against Orientia tsutsugamushi in human and rodent populations.
  • To investigate the potential endemicity of scrub typhus in Palau.

Main Methods:

  • Serological testing for immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies against O. tsutsugamushi.
  • Analysis of serum samples from Palau residents surveyed in 2003 and banked samples from 1995.
  • Testing of serum samples from rodents (Rattus norvegicus and R. rattus) collected in 2003 and 2005.

Main Results:

  • In 2003, 47.6% of surveyed Palau residents (212) had elevated IgG titers, and 26.4% had concurrent high IgG and IgM titers.
  • A significant increase in IgG antibody prevalence was observed compared to 1995 data (5.4%).
  • Antibodies to O. tsutsugamushi were detected in 28.6% of tested rodents.

Conclusions:

  • Scrub typhus is likely endemic in Palau, with significant circulation in both human and rodent populations.
  • The findings highlight the need for continued surveillance and public health awareness regarding scrub typhus in Palau.
  • Further research may be warranted to identify specific mite vectors and environmental risk factors.

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