Louis, S. et. al. 2024. Emerg Inf Dis 30(12). DOI: https://doi.org/10.3201/eid3012.240655.
Abstract
In a US survey of infectious disease specialists, 61 respondents reported seeing >1 Bartonella quintana [‘trench fever’] infection during 2014–2024. Diagnostic challenges included limited healthcare provider awareness, inadequate testing, and inconsistent healthcare access among affected populations. Early recognition of B. quintana infections is needed to improve outcomes among affected populations. Note: This letter extends previous findings in California by CDPH reporting the isolation of this pathogen from body lice collected from the homeless and serves as a reminder of the importance of providing basic health care and sanitation for all members of society.