Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Mexico: A Call to Action

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) poses a significant public health crisis in Mexico, especially in border states.
• High incidence and mortality rates, with a case-fatality rate of 10-50%, disproportionately affect children, the elderly, and impoverished communities.
• Biological, environmental, and social factors contribute to the increasing prevalence and health system challenges posed by RMSF.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the current situation and challenges of RMSF in Mexico.
• To foster collaboration between U.S. and Mexican health authorities, researchers, and society.
• To develop an urgent call to action for improved national capacity to combat RMSF.

Main Methods:

• A scientific symposium was held in Hermosillo, Mexico, from November 8-10, 2023.
• Participants included academicians, U.S. health officials, and Mexican health authorities.
• Discussions focused on current RMSF epidemiology, challenges, and potential solutions.

Main Results:

• Experts identified critical areas for improvement: epidemiological and acarological surveillance, diagnosis, medical care, prevention, health promotion, and research.
• An urgent call for action was issued to enhance national capacity to address RMSF.
• The need for integrated resources and capacities from various sectors was emphasized.

Conclusions:

• The One Health approach is recommended as a multidisciplinary strategy to mitigate and prevent RMSF.
• Coordinated efforts are essential to reduce the burden of RMSF cases, deaths, and suffering in Mexico.
• Strengthening national capacity is crucial for effective RMSF control.