Diagnosis and Testing

  • The signs and symptoms of RMSF are similar to those of many other diseases. See your healthcare provider if you develop any of the signs or symptoms of RMSF.
  • Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you become ill and have recently been bitten by a tick or have spent time in areas where ticks may be found.
  • Your healthcare provider may order certain blood tests to look for evidence of RMSF.
  • The results of these tests can take weeks. If your healthcare provider thinks your illness might be RMSF, he or she should recommend antibiotic treatment before test results are available.