Waco Girl Survived Rare Deadly Complication from Typhus

A Waco teenager and athlete spent six nights at McLane Children's Hospital after developing septic shock caused by flea-borne typhus, according to KWTX. Medical specialists say cases of the infectious disease are higher than usual, and the illness has been spreading throughout Central Texas. When doctors first examined 12-year-old Hope Smith, they believed her symptoms, including a 106-degree fever, could have been caused by hand, foot and mouth disease or strep throat. However, when antibiotics failed to help, her condition quickly worsened. By the ninth day, she had stopped eating, her urine had turned dark, and her breathing had changed.
That's when the situation became critical.

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What Happened to Hope Smith?

Hope was fighting for her life at McLane Children's Hospital. As her oxygen levels and blood pressure dropped, she was rushed to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, where doctors determined she had gone into septic shock triggered by flea-borne typhus. Jennifer Smith, Hope's mother, described the frightening moments in the hospital."Three people were working on her child and not speaking. Then there were five, then six more people, and more just kept coming in," she said. "It was terrifying."

What Are The Symptoms?

An infectious disease specialist recognized the pattern of symptoms, including low sodium levels, a high fever, and a rash. After additional testing confirmed flea-borne typhus, doctors were able to begin the appropriate treatment. Health experts recommend taking steps to reduce the risk of flea-borne illnesses by keeping pets on year-round flea prevention, treating flea infestations inside and around the home, maintaining yards by cutting overgrown grass, wearing shoes outdoors, and avoiding contact with stray animals. Flea-borne typhus is a serious illness that can become life-threatening if not treated promptly. If you or your child develops a high fever, rash, or severe flu-like symptoms after possible exposure to fleas, seek medical care immediately.