A68: Relapsing fevers

A68.9: Relapsing fever, unspecified

Relapsing fever is caused by certain parasites. Parasites are small creatures that, at least for periods of time, live off other creatures. In humans they can cause illnesses. The parasites can be spread via body lice or a tick bite. The ticks themselves can become infected through parasites on rodents. The lice can pass the relapsing fever from person to person. Louse-borne relapsing fever occurs in the north-east of Africa, and in Asia and South America.

Relapsing fever can make you seriously ill. You can have a high fever and be confused. Other symptoms can also occur, such as headaches, limb pain and nausea. The symptoms may fade after a few days, and recur later. You can also have inflammation in various organs.