A tragic incident has occurred in Tatuí, São Paulo, where a 10-year-old girl has succumbed to spotted fever, a tick-borne disease. The local government confirmed the death on February 20, 2026, although the incident happened on February 15. This case marks the first recorded instance of spotted fever in Tatuí for 2026, following a year where no cases were reported.

Authorities are urging residents to be extra vigilant in areas with dense vegetation, pastures, and regions frequented by animals, such as horses and capybaras, as these environments pose a higher risk for tick bites. The severe implications of spotted fever, which can lead to high mortality, underscore the need for public awareness and precautionary measures, especially as the conditions favorable for tick activity are prevalent in certain areas.

Spotted fever is a serious infectious disease transmitted primarily through the bite of the star tick. It can present symptoms that range from mild to severe and includes high fever, intense headache, and more. With the city's lack of reported cases in the previous year, this incident raises concerns about the potential reemergence of tick-borne illnesses and highlights the importance of community education on prevention and early detection of symptoms.