Louse-borne relapsing fever

Description

A spirochaetal infection caused by the human to human transmission of Borrelia recurrentis by the human body louse. Epidemics are associated with poor living conditions as may result from famine or war. Episodic fever may progress to severe jaundice, haemorrhage, confusion and death. Confirmation is by identification of Borrelia in blood films.

Inclusions

• Relapsing fever due to Borrelia recurrentis

Exclusions from above levels

• NE83.1 – Infection arising from device, implant or graft, not elsewhere classified