CDC warns against cat scratch fever

Published: Updated:

FORT MYERS, Fla. — Cat scratch fever is becoming more prevalent in Southern states, especially among children ages five to nine, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

The disease spreads to people if an infected cat bites or scratches them. It is passed through a bacterium called Bartonella that is carried by ticks and fleas.

Those infected have flu-like symptoms, such as swollen lymph nodes and fever, which many people ignore.

The best safety measure is to treat pets for fleas and to get tested if bitten or scratched.

 

 

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