Rickettsioses are a group of infectious diseases caused by bacteria from the Rickettsia genus. These bacteria are typically transmitted to humans through bites from infected ticks, fleas, or lice. Symptoms often include fever, headache, rash, and muscle pain, which can vary in severity depending on the specific type of rickettsiosis. Common forms of rickettsioses include Rocky Mountain spotted fever and typhus. Diagnosis usually involves clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Treatment typically consists of antibiotics, which are most effective when administered early in the course of the illness.