These cases can be life-threatening and even fatal for elderly patients and others with compromised immune systems. First identified in , the HME bacterium E. Ticks infected with E. Recent expansion of the lone star tick into New York state particularly Long Island and coastal New England has resulted in cases of HME being reported from these areas with increased frequency.
Onset of ehrlichiosis generally begins within a week of a tick bite, and often includes fever, severe headaches, malaise, muscle pains, and chills. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, confusion and joint pain. Ehrlichia chaffeensis , which causes human monocytic ehrlichiosis HME , and Ehrlichia ewingii , which causes human ewingii ehrlichiosis , are most common in the south central and southeastern states within the United States.
The majority of all cases reported are from Ehrlichia chaffeensis infections. Arkansas, Delaware, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Virginia have reported the highest number of cases. With the rapid northern habitat expansion of the Lone Star tick, the number of ehrlichiosis cases in the United States could grow over the next few years. Personal preventative measures and integrated tick management ITM programs should be executed in endemic areas to help reduce this significant public health concern.
The expansion of the white-tailed deer and wild turkey populations in the U. Within the U. The preferred habitat of the Amblyomma americanum includes woodlands with thick underbrush and around areas where animals rest grassy meadows or brush along waterways. The common name for the Amblyomma americanum is the Lone Star tick, referencing the single white dot on the scutum shield on the back of a hard tick of the adult female.
The species is known for its aggressive biting during all lifecycle stages and can move extremely fast on the ground as well as around its host when compared to other species like the deer tick. Adults are typically active from February-June. Nymphs are present from May-August and can also be found feeding on humans and pets in large numbers. Not all ticks bite and transmit disease to people. Find out what which ticks are spreading disease in your area.
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CDC is not responsible for Section compliance accessibility on other federal or private website. They do not fly or jump, so they can only reach a host who brushes up against them. Factors that increase your risk of a tick bite include:. Without prompt treatment, ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis can have serious effects on an otherwise healthy adult or child.
People with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of more-serious and life-threatening complications. The best way to steer clear of ehrlichiosis or anaplasmosis is to avoid tick bites when you are outdoors.
Most ticks attach themselves to your lower legs and feet as you walk or work in grassy, wooded areas or overgrown fields. After a tick attaches to your body, it usually crawls upward to find a location to burrow into your skin.
If you are going to be working or playing in an area that is a likely tick habitat, follow these tips to protect yourself.
And they will climb up the nearest object, like this blade of grass here. Mayo Clinic parasitic diseases expert Dr.
Bobbi Pritt suggests permethrin for your clothing and gear. Use permethrin on materials and DEET on skin. Spray the DEET repellent on exposed skin, including your legs and hands. Avoid your face, but be sure to protect your neck. Then, tuck your pants into your socks. And, on your hike, remember to avoid areas where those questing ticks may be perched. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.
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