Texas Man Loses Hands and Toes After Flea Bite Leads to Life-Threatening Disease
SAN ANTONIO – A single flea bite has led to devastating consequences for a 35-year-old Texas man, leaving him without hands and toes. Michael Kohlhof initially believed he was suffering from flu-like symptoms until his feet suddenly went numb.
According to a GoFundMe post shared by Kohlhof’s family, he visited the emergency room on June 19 and was then admitted to the intensive care unit due to septic shock. It was later determined that he had contracted typhus, an infectious disease transmitted to humans by fleas, lice, and chiggers.
Kohlhof’s brother informed local news station KENS 5 that his brother’s case of typhus was specifically caused by a flea. While most individuals would notice swelling or a rash at the site of the bite, Kohlhof did not experience any of these common symptoms, leading to a delayed diagnosis.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that flea-borne typhus is typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, including certain areas of the United States like southern California, Hawaii, and Texas. However, it remains a rare disease in the country.
Despite fighting for his life while being put on a ventilator, Kohlhof managed to defy the odds. He was taken off sedation on July 1 and regained consciousness a few days later. However, his battle with complications was far from over.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Kohlhof’s family revealed on the GoFundMe page that both of his hands were amputated on July 10. Just recently, on Thursday, doctors amputated his toes and part of his feet.
Kohlhof, described as a handyman and an art lover, relied heavily on the use of his hands for his passions and everyday activities. In addition to the medical challenges he faces, his family highlighted the financial burden as he does not have health insurance.
In an effort to alleviate some of the financial strain, the family set up a GoFundMe campaign to assist with his medical expenses. “Michael has strength and will undergo an excruciating amount of surgeries, therapies, and rehabilitation, mainly to restore his daily activities. But he shouldn’t have to worry about the financial pain,” one passage on the GoFundMe page reads.
The CDC emphasizes that there is currently no vaccine available to prevent flea-borne typhus. To reduce the risk of infection, individuals are advised to avoid contact with fleas, ensure pets are protected against fleas, avoid contact with wild animals, and use insect repellent while spending time outdoors.
As the investigation into Kohlhof’s case continues, his tragic story serves as a harrowing reminder of the potential dangers lurking in the most unexpected places.