As global temperatures continue to rise, the number of insects, including ticks, is also increasing.
For instance, an American study revealed that tick-borne diseases have tripled in the past 15 years.
Despite repeated warnings from experts to wear long pants and sleeves, following this advice during the sweltering summer months isn’t always practical. And staying indoors isn’t much of an alternative—after a harsh winter, warm, sunny days naturally draw us outside.
However, caution remains essential.
No one should have to endure what five-year-old Mason McNair experienced. Sadly, his story is more common than many realize and could have had far graver consequences.
A Playful Day Turns Serious
Mason was playing outdoors with his grandparents, enjoying nature as most children do. Later, when his grandmother was bathing him, she noticed a tick embedded in his navel.
She removed it safely, but the area remained red and swollen. A visit to the doctor resulted in Mason being prescribed antibiotics. However, his condition soon deteriorated.
Mason developed a rash, fever, and stomach pains.
“At first, it just looked like a heat rash. We’d been outside all weekend, and it was very hot,” explained Danielle McNair, Mason’s mother.
But the rash spread quickly, covering large portions of his body. When the family consulted their doctor again, they were reassured that it was just a delayed reaction to the antibiotics.
“I wasn’t satisfied with the answer,” Danielle told USA Today. “I started doing my own research and called my sister, who’s a veterinarian.”
Determined, Danielle insisted on further investigation, convinced that Mason had Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF), a tick-borne disease.
The Diagnosis
While most people are familiar with tick-related illnesses like Lyme disease and TBE, RMSF is less well-known. However, research has confirmed that ticks can transmit this infection, too.
Mason’s symptoms—fever, rash, and headache—aligned perfectly with RMSF.
Despite its name, RMSF isn’t limited to mountainous regions. It has been reported in various parts of the United States and beyond. Treating it requires a specific type of antibiotic.
Danielle’s persistence paid off. Her efforts ensured Mason received the correct diagnosis and treatment, sparing him from a potentially dire outcome.
“If I hadn’t done my own research and pushed for answers, we’d be in a completely different situation with my son. And that is terrifying,” Danielle shared.
Raising Awareness
Danielle now shares her story to educate others about this life-threatening condition. Tragically, in June 2017, a two-year-old girl lost her life to RMSF after being misdiagnosed.
According to Dr. Paige Armstrong, a medical epidemiologist at the CDC, children often display atypical symptoms of RMSF, which contributes to frequent misdiagnoses.
“Protect your child,” Danielle urges other parents. “Always be an advocate for them. Do your own research and trust your instincts. Doctors are human, too—they don’t know everything.”
Thanks to her advocacy, Mason has fully recovered. Her experience is a powerful reminder of the importance of vigilance and persistence when it comes to tick-borne diseases.
