[Rickettsioses: the epidemiological assessment]

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases

Context:

• Microbes from Rickettsiaceae and Bartonellaceae families within the Rickettsiales order are responsible for numerous human diseases worldwide.
• Approximately eight distinct nosological forms of these diseases are documented in Russia and former Soviet republics.
• The epidemiological landscape of these rickettsial diseases has historically varied significantly across regions.

Purpose:

• To review the global and regional impact of Rickettsiales order microbes on human health.
• To highlight the historical eradication and current status of specific rickettsial diseases.
• To identify emerging or understudied rickettsial diseases in Russia.

Summary:

• Rickettsiales order microbes have caused at least 14 distinct human diseases globally, with a significant burden in Russia and former Soviet republics.
• Historically, diseases such as trench fever, Marseilles fever, murine typhus, and rickettsialpox have been successfully controlled and eliminated for decades.
• While some rickettsial infections have diminished in epidemiological significance, others like ehrlichiosis, Bartonella, and tsutsugamushi fever require further investigation in Russia due to ongoing public health relevance.

Impact:

• Provides a historical overview of rickettsial disease epidemiology, noting successful public health interventions.
• Identifies specific rickettsial diseases that have been eradicated or significantly reduced in prevalence.
• Emphasizes the continued threat posed by certain rickettsial infections and the need for further research into understudied diseases like ehrlichiosis and Bartonella in Russia.