Relapsing Fever Imported Into Belgium: A Case Report

SummaryA case of Borrelia infection (relapsing fever) imported into Belgium is described in a 24-yearold nurse who returned from Somalia. She had repeatedly been bitten by lice and fleas and was admitted because of high fever.Microscopic examination of the peripheral blood revealed numerous, actively motile, spirochaetes. The patient was treated with penicillin and doxycycline and recovered completely. The literature on relapsing fever is briefly reviewed.