disease information
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Human Monocytotropic Ehrlichiosis |
The symptoms of Human Monocytotropic Ehrlichiosis (HME) are similar to anaplasmosis.
There were no confirmed cases (clinically compatible illnesses that were confirmed by the laboratory) of HME for Maine in 2007, however, there were three probable cases (consistent with symptoms but with only one lab test). Two of the probable cases were female. One of the probable cases was also a probable case for HGE. Transmission of HME is most likely due to the bite of a lone star tick, a tick that is rarely found in Maine.
To lower the risk of contracting HME, appropriate measures should be taken to reduce the chances of acquiring tick bites, especially when visiting southeastern states. Precautions include wearing repellents containing DEET or permethrin, as well as thoroughly checking for ticks in the evening.
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