Rocky Mountain fever deaths have increased to 15 this year.

At the same time, patients affected by rickettsiosis have climbed to 35.

Also, the state Department of Public Health has recorded 56 cases that were discarded as patients tested negative.

The agency recently held an event to promote prevention measures in vulnerable communities in the outskirts of Mexicali.

Secretary of Public Health Adrian Medina said over the weekend the authorities held an event in the Colonia Rivera Campestre south of Mexicali.

The authorities visited close to 500 homes to help residents and take samples from pets.

Also, the agency dewormed 85 pets and owners were offered pet spaying.

Over a hundred residents were educated to detect ticks.

Rocky Mountain fever is a tick borne illness that has caused dozens of deaths in Mexicali in at least the last decade.

Besides dogs and cats, ticks can be found in outdoor furniture. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, and others.