Move Over Lyme Disease: There's A New Tick-Borne Illness To Worry About
Summary
A tick-borne infection called anaplasmosis is spreading into new parts of North America and is becoming the second most common tick disease in Canada after Lyme disease. Doctors warn that it can cause serious health problems, such as heart inflammation, and suggest precautions to prevent tick bites.Key Facts
- Anaplasmosis is a disease spread by black-legged ticks, becoming more common in North America.
- It is the second most frequent tick-borne illness in Canada after Lyme disease.
- A recent case in eastern Ontario involved a man who developed myocarditis (heart inflammation) caused by anaplasmosis.
- Early symptoms of tick-borne diseases can look like common viruses and are often missed.
- Prompt treatment with antibiotics such as doxycycline leads to better health outcomes.
- Doctors recommend using insect repellents with DEET or picaridin, treating clothes with permethrin, wearing long sleeves and pants, and checking the body for ticks after outdoor activities.
- Many people do not remember being bitten by ticks despite contracting tick-borne diseases.
- Showering soon after spending time outdoors can help remove ticks before they attach to the skin.
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