The high lethality attributed to Brazilian spotted fever remains a public health concern. Several factors contribute to this problem, particularly its clinical similarity to other acute febrile illnesses, limitations in diagnostic tools and lack of timely treatment. In addition, lack of knowledge about the disease among health professionals and the general population is an important issue. To identify the characteristics of deaths due to Brazilian spotted fever and their epidemiological repercussions in Brazil, using data recorded from 2014 to 2023 (10 years). Ecological study analyzing secondary data from Brazilian databases, from 2014 to 2023. Data were obtained from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN). A total of 693 deaths due to Brazilian spotted fever were reported in Brazil between 2014 and 2023. The disease maintained persistently high lethality, with an average of 33.86%. The Southeast region concentrated the majority of deaths (99.1%), especially the state of São Paulo. Males were more affected (77.05%). The 40–59-year age group accounted for most cases, with progressive decline from the sixth decade of life. Laboratory tests remained the main diagnostic confirmation method. Analysis of Brazilian data revealed that cases of Brazilian spotted fever, despite annual variations, continue to increase and that the lethality rate remains high. In Brazil, deaths are concentrated in the Southeast region, affecting mainly men aged 40 to 59 years. Preventive measures targeting this specific group are needed. Furthermore, early diagnosis and treatment based on clinical-epidemiological suspicion are essential to prevent fatal outcomes. The increase in notifications may be credited to efforts by the Brazilian Ministry of Health regarding surveillance of this disease and other rickettsioses in the country. It is crucial that health professionals be prepared to diagnose and treat suspected cases early. Given the high lethality and limited diagnostic laboratory resources, treatment must be promptly initiated when Brazilian spotted fever is clinically and epidemiologically suspected, without waiting for laboratory confirmation.
Eto et al. (Sun,) studied this question.