03/10/26 Public Health Education Topic: Anaplasmosis

Per CDC

Key points

• Anaplasmosis is a disease caused by the bacteria Anaplasma phagocytophilum primarily spread to people by the bite of an infected tick.

• Signs and symptoms of anaplasmosis typically begin within 1–2 weeks after the bite of an infected tick.

• Healthcare providers order certain blood tests to look for evidence of anaplasmosis.

Signs and symptoms

Signs and symptoms of anaplasmosis typically begin within 1–2 weeks after the bite of an infected tick, however many people do not remember being bitten.

See your healthcare provider if you become ill after being bitten by a tick or have been in areas where ticks live. Ticks commonly live in the woods or in areas with high brush.

Early illness

Early signs and symptoms (days 1-5) are usually mild or moderate and may include:

• Fever, chills

• Severe headache

• Muscle aches

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite

  
  

Late illness

If treatment is delayed or if there are other medical conditions present, anaplasmosis can cause severe illness. Prompt treatment can reduce your risk of developing severe illness.

Signs and symptoms of severe (late stage) illness can include:

• Respiratory failure

• Bleeding problems

• Organ failure

• Death

  
  

Risk factors for severe illness:

• Delayed treatment

• 65 years of age or older

• Weakened immune system

People with weakened immune systems are at risk for severe illness. This includes people receiving some cancer treatments, individuals with advanced HIV infection, prior organ transplants, or people taking some medications.

To learn more please visit: About Anaplasmosis | Anaplasmosis | CDC