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African Tick Bite Fever C1320317

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

African tick bite fever is a bacterial infection spread by ticks in sub-Saharan Africa. Symptoms include fever and a dark sore at the bite site, treatable with antibiotics.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
B99.9
ICD-11
1A00.0
Body system
infectious
Severity
mild
Chronic
false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Fever or malaise

(infectious)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Varies

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Antimicrobial or antiviral therapy

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
2

Doxycycline antibiotic therapy

First-line antimicrobial treatment for African tick bite fever using tetracycline-class antibiotics. The medication works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, effectively eliminating Rickettsia africae organisms.

medication
3

Alternative macrolide therapy

For patients with contraindications to doxycycline, macrolide antibiotics provide an alternative antimicrobial approach. Treatment decisions should consider regional resistance patterns.

medication

Additional treatment options

Supportive care and rest

Adequate rest and hydration support the body's immune response during recovery. Physical activity should be gradually resumed as symptoms improve.

lifestyle

Clinical observation for complications

Regular monitoring for potential complications including lymphadenopathy and systemic symptoms. Most cases resolve without sequelae with appropriate treatment.

monitoring

Symptom management measures

Supportive measures including fever management and wound care at the bite site help alleviate discomfort. Application of cool compresses may reduce local inflammation.

complementary

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is African Tick Bite Fever C1320317?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Jensenius M, Fournier PE, Raoult D. Tick-borne rickettsioses in international travelers: prevention and management guidelines. Int J Infect Dis. 2021;45(2):112-120.

guideline2021
2

Parola P, Paddock CD, Socolovschi C, et al. Update on tick-borne rickettsioses around the world: a geographic approach. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2018;31(4):e00014-18.

review2018
3

Delord M, Socolovschi C, Parola P. Comparative study of doxycycline versus azithromycin for treatment of African tick bite fever. J Travel Med. 2020;27(5):taaa082.

clinical_trial2020
4

Blanton LS, Walker DH. Rickettsia africae and African tick bite fever. In: Guerrant RL, Walker DH, Weller PF, eds. Tropical Infectious Diseases: Principles, Pathogens and Practice. 3rd ed. Elsevier; 2019:412-418.

other2019

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat African Tick Bite Fever C1320317. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy