Murine typhus: an underappreciated influence on human disease transmission dynamics

Murine typhus, a vector-borne illness transmitted by fleas and caused by Rickettsia typhi, presents significant public health challenges globally. Despite its impact, it often remains underrecognized in health systems. This disease is characterized by non-specific symptoms such as fever, rash, and severe complications in cases involving neurological or multi-organ involvement. The complexity of its clinical presentation frequently leads to misdiagnosis and underreporting, obscuring true transmission dynamics and impeding effective management. Highlighting the need for enhanced diagnostic methods, targeted public health interventions, and increased awareness, this review calls for a strategic focus to better understand and mitigate the influence of murine typhus on global health.