Bartonella infection

Awareness of the risk of cat scratches and bites and prompt washing of any wounds is essential to prevent cat-scratch disease (CSD). Hand washing after playing with cats and kittens is recommended. Immunocompromised people should consider the risks of cat ownership and avoid owning cats less than 1 year old. Flea prevention in cats (and dogs, especially if cats and dogs are in the same household) is recommended. Cats should be kept indoors if possible.[33]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Bartonella infection. Jan 2022 [internet publication]. https://www.cdc.gov/bartonella/index.html

Insect repellents and protective clothing should be used to prevent Bartonella bacilliformis infections in regions infested with the sand fly Lutzomyia verrucarum. Sand flies are most active at dawn and dusk; therefore, outdoor activities should be limited at these times to avoid bites.[33]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Bartonella infection. Jan 2022 [internet publication]. https://www.cdc.gov/bartonella/index.html

Body lice (Pediculus humanus humanus) are usually associated with poor personal hygiene and conditions of crowding. Maintaining good personal hygiene and regularly washing clothing, bedding, and towels can help to protect against the human louse that transmits Bartonella quintana infections.[33]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Bartonella infection. Jan 2022 [internet publication]. https://www.cdc.gov/bartonella/index.html [41]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Body lice: prevention and control. 12 September 2019 [internet publication]. https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/body/prevent.html Chemical insecticides may be needed to prevent and control body lice in certain circumstances.​[41]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Body lice: prevention and control. 12 September 2019 [internet publication]. https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/body/prevent.html

Patients with CSD should be advised to have their cats reviewed by the veterinarian and treated for bartonellosis as well as for cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis).

Treatment and control of human body lice (Pediculus humanus humanus) to prevent further spread of Bartonella quintana is important. If the patient is from a homeless shelter or a group home, actions to control pests in such places will prevent further disease outbreaks.​[41]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Body lice: prevention and control. 12 September 2019 [internet publication]. https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/body/prevent.html [74]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Bartonella quintana infection. In: Bartonella infection. May 2022 [internet publication]. https://www.cdc.gov/bartonella/bartonella-quintana/index.html