Sennetsu Fever, also known as Sennetsu ehrlichiosis, is a rare infectious disease caused by the bacterium Ehrlichia sennetsu. This bacterium primarily infects humans and is transmitted through the consumption of raw or undercooked fish, particularly in endemic regions such as Japan and Southeast Asia.
The main cause of Sennetsu Fever is the ingestion of infected fish. The lifecycle of Ehrlichia sennetsu involves two hosts: a snail and a fish. The snail serves as an intermediate host, harboring the infective stage of the bacterium. When the snail releases cercariae (larval form) into the water, they can infect various species of fish. Humans become infected when they consume raw or undercooked fish that contain the infective stage of the bacterium.
It is important to note that Sennetsu Fever is not transmitted directly from person to person. The infection occurs solely through the consumption of contaminated fish. Therefore, individuals who do not consume raw or undercooked fish are not at risk of contracting the disease.
Once ingested, the Ehrlichia sennetsu bacterium invades the human body and primarily targets the monocytes, a type of white blood cell. This invasion leads to the characteristic symptoms of Sennetsu Fever, which typically appear within 1 to 3 weeks after ingestion.
The symptoms of Sennetsu Fever can vary but commonly include:
If left untreated, Sennetsu Fever can lead to complications such as pneumonia, hepatitis, and inflammation of the heart or brain. Therefore, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial.
Diagnosing Sennetsu Fever involves:
Treatment for Sennetsu Fever typically involves the use of antibiotics, such as tetracycline or doxycycline, to eliminate the bacterial infection. Most patients respond well to treatment, and the prognosis is generally favorable.
Prevention of Sennetsu Fever primarily involves:
By following these preventive measures, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of contracting Sennetsu Fever.