How To Spot Anaplasmosis

Anaplasmosis is a bacterial disease borne by ticks, and the majority of cases occur when the bacteria is spread through an infected tick bite. The disease can be found throughout the United States. In the Midwest and Northeast, the bacteria is found in blacklegged tick bites. Along the west coast, the western blacklegged tick is the main carrier. There have been rare cases in which the bacteria is spread through blood transfusion. Anaplasmosis most commonly occurs in Northeastern and upper Midwest states. The largest concentration of cases tends to happen in Maine, Vermont, and Minnesota.

Fever And Chills

Fever and chills are two of the first symptoms of anaplasmosis to appear. With anaplasmosis, the symptoms tend to begin within one to two weeks after being bitten by an infected tick. In many cases, the tick bite is painless and may even go unnoticed, but when individuals do become ill following a tick bite, it's important to talk to a medical professional. The fever is caused by the immune system reacting to the bacterial infection. Chills are also often associated with fever.

A fever isn't an automatic sign of anaplasmosis, as it can indicate a wide range of different issues. When individuals experience chills and a fever simultaneously, a viral or bacterial infection is usually responsible. The body raises its temperature as the immune system attempts to fight off the illness. Mild fevers tend to be 102 or fewer degrees Fahrenheit, but fevers higher than this require medical attention. To reduce fever and chills, try sponging the skin with water at a warm temperature.

Muscle Aches

Anaplasmosis often causes muscle aches. It should be noted, however, it isn't the only tick-borne infection that commonly causes muscle aches. Ehrlichiosis is another common infection with symptoms similar to anaplasmosis. However, individuals with anaplasmosis don't tend to develop a rash, while patients with ehrlichiosis often do. If you live in Southern states, ehrlichiosis is more common, while anaplasmosis is more common in the North. If you experience aches in the muscles after a tick bite, talk to a doctor about testing for anaplasmosis. Similarly, even if you don't find a tick bite, it's good to have a doctor test you if you've recently been in tick-rich areas. Delaying treatment can sometimes lead to more severe illness.