Scrub typhus in the northern provinces of Vietnam: an observational study of admissions to a national referral hospital.

BACKGROUND

Scrub typhus is a common cause of fever in parts of South East and Southern Asia. Little is known about the disease burden in Vietnam.

METHODS

A 2-year observational study of scrub typhus at a tertiary referral hospital in northern Vietnam was carried out. Diagnosis was based on a single serological test in patients with suggestive clinical symptoms.

RESULTS

Scrub typhus was diagnosed in 3.5% (251/7226) of admissions. Cases occurred throughout the year, with incidence highest in the summer. Although complications were common, mortality was low (1.2%; 3/251).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that scrub typhus is common, with a seasonal distribution in northern Vietnam.