Two Suspected Fatalities from Spotted Fever Under Investigation in Manhuaçu, Brazil

Manhuaçu, Minas Gerais, is investigating two suspected cases of spotted fever (febre maculosa) following the deaths of two men, aged 49 and 61. Both victims shared the same epidemiological link, and their deaths are currently under scrutiny by the municipal health authorities, with support from the Manhuaçu Regional Health Unit. The State Health Secretariat of Minas Gerais (SES-MG) confirmed that the exact cause of death for both individuals is still pending confirmation. The SES-MG is actively monitoring the epidemiological situation across the state and maintaining established surveillance and prevention measures. These new suspected cases emerge amidst confirmed occurrences of the disease in the Eastern Minas region. In Mutum, one death and another case of spotted fever have already been confirmed this year by the SES-MG, and a resident of Córrego Novo also succumbed to the infection. Spotted fever is endemic throughout Minas Gerais, with higher concentrations in the central, Vale do Aço, Eastern, and Southeastern regions. While cases can appear year-round, the peak season typically runs from April to October, coinciding with the dry season. Historically, the disease disproportionately affects men between the ages of 41 and 60, and the average fatality rate in Minas Gerais stands at approximately 30%. Prevention primarily involves avoiding contact with the star tick (Amblyomma), the disease vector, especially in areas frequented by capybaras, horses, and dogs, or near pastures and ecological reserves. Recommended precautions include using insect repellent containing Icaridin, wearing light-colored, long-sleeved clothing and closed-toe shoes, frequently checking the body for ticks, and removing them carefully with tweezers without crushing them. Maintaining clean terrain and pastures, along with veterinary-guided tick control on animals, are also advised.