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Diseases & Topics

Anaplasmosis

Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease caused by the bacteria Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Like Lyme disease and babesiosis, anaplasmosis is transmitted to people primarily by the bite of black-legged ticks (Ixodes scapularis). Anaplasmosis is most commonly reported in people from New England and the upper Midwest.

Typical symptoms include fever, headache, chills and muscle aches. Usually, these symptoms occur within one to two weeks of a tick bite. The disease is initially diagnosed based on clinical signs and symptoms and medical history, and can later be confirmed for surveillance purposes by using specialized laboratory tests. Anaplasmosis can be treated with antibiotics such as doxycycline.

Anaplasmosis and other tick-borne diseases can be prevented by avoiding tick bites. Use insect repellent, remove ticks promptly and eliminate tick habitat around your home through landscaping and integrated pest management practices.

In North Carolina

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