disease information
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Anaplasmosis(Human Granulocytic Ehrlichiosis) |
The symptoms of anaplasmosis (HGE) include achy body, headache, fever and malaise.
There were two confirmed cases (clinically compatible illnesses that were confirmed by the laboratory) of anaplasmosis and seven probable cases (consistent with symptoms but with only one lab test) from Maine in 2007. The two confirmed cases were male while the seven probable cases included three females and four males. One probable case of anaplasmosis was simultaneously a probable case for Human Monocytotropic Ehrlichiosis (HME). Anaplasmosis is transmitted by the bite of the deer tick, one of the most common ticks in Maine.
The best way to prevent infection is to take measures to protect against tick bites. Checking for ticks after visiting a tick-infested area is an important way to reduce the risk of contracting anaplasmosis. Also, wearing repellents such as DEET or permethrin, applied properly according to the directions, is a good way to protect oneself against ticks.