[5 cases of Mediterranean boutonneuse fever in Switzerland]

The Boutonneuse Fever also called Marseilles or Eruptive Mediterranean Fever is an common disease in mediterranean area, in Africa and Indien. Rickettsia conorii is the microorganism involved and Rhipicephalus sanguineus is the most common vector. In Switzerland, this dog's tick don't exist in the nature, but it may be introduced by a dog contaminated elsewhere outside of the country and remain alive in our houses. It the reason why this disease is very uncommon in Switzerland. However, it may be observed in people coming back from vacation or in patients in contact with imported Rhipicephalus. In this paper, five cases of Boutonneuse Fever diagnosed between 1980 and 1985 are reported. The epidemiological relationships between four of these cases are of special interest. The clinical picture of the disease is presented with the different serological tests useful in confirming the diagnosis. Prevention and treatment are discussed.