Colorado tick fever is caused by an RNA virus of the genus Coltivirus
-It is transmitted by infected wood ticks (Dermacentor andersoni) in the northern Rocky mountain states
-Typical patient is a young male hiking at high altitudes
Symptoms & Signs
Sudden onset with diphasic fever, myalgia, headache, joint pains, fatigue, and nausea
Diagnosis
RT-PCR assays can detect viral RNA in red blood cells and in plasma
Treatment
-Usually self-limited illness, supportive care