The National Center for Disease Control in Libya announced several cases of “Rickettsia” disease in the central region.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the center said it received data from the center’s Rapid Response and Surveillance Network indicating the appearance of Rickettsia disease in the central region. It noted that it activated active surveillance mechanisms in the central region to monitor the epidemiological situation of the disease, in coordination with the relevant health authorities to ensure everyone’s safety.

The center added that “Rickettsia” disease is considered endemic in Libya and is transmitted through insects (such as ticks, mites, fleas, lice, and bedbugs). It usually appears seasonally in areas rich in forests, wildlife, or places where animals are raised.

The National Center for Disease Control also warned that the disease could appear in various parts of Libya where environmental factors suitable for vector spread exist, emphasizing the importance of prevention and raising awareness as the first line of defense.

Symptoms of “Rickettsia” disease include fever, rash usually on the limbs, headache, and body aches. In some cases, symptoms may worsen and become more severe.

The center recommended that all citizens follow preventive measures, wear long clothing when in forests or farms, use insect repellents, avoid contact with animals that may carry disease-causing insects, maintain personal hygiene, and wash clothes regularly.