Endemic typhus is caused by which organism?

Study for the AAMI Microbiology for Embalmers Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare for your certification!

Multiple Choice

Endemic typhus is caused by which organism?

Explanation:
Endemic typhus, also known as murine typhus, is caused by Rickettsia typhi. This organism is transmitted to humans mainly via fleas that live on rats, which is why it’s associated with a rodent-flea cycle. It’s distinct from epidemic typhus, caused by Rickettsia prowazekii and spread by body lice; and from Rocky Mountain spotted fever, caused by Rickettsia rickettsii, or scrub typhus, caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi. So the organism responsible for endemic typhus is Rickettsia typhi.

Endemic typhus, also known as murine typhus, is caused by Rickettsia typhi. This organism is transmitted to humans mainly via fleas that live on rats, which is why it’s associated with a rodent-flea cycle. It’s distinct from epidemic typhus, caused by Rickettsia prowazekii and spread by body lice; and from Rocky Mountain spotted fever, caused by Rickettsia rickettsii, or scrub typhus, caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi. So the organism responsible for endemic typhus is Rickettsia typhi.

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