Tick-borne infections in the United States

Prim Care. 2013 Sep;40(3):619-35. doi: 10.1016/j.pop.2013.05.003. Epub 2013 Jul 13.

Abstract

Patients with illnesses caused by ticks may present with flulike symptoms. Physicians should learn how to recognize these illnesses by specific aspects in the patients' histories and physical examinations. Prevention of mortality and morbidity may depend on correct early diagnosis and treatment. Illness prevention may result with early removal of the tick, because infection usually requires 24 to 48 hours of attachment to the host. A bite from one tick may transmit several different pathogens leading to concurrent infections. The prevention of tick-borne illnesses can start with advice on how to prevent tick bites, especially during summer time.

Keywords: Babesiosis; Ehrlichiosis; Lyme; Spirochetes; Tick-borne; Ticks; Tularemia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / adverse effects
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Clothing
  • Humans
  • Insect Repellents / therapeutic use
  • Insecticide-Treated Bednets
  • Primary Health Care
  • Risk Factors
  • Tick Control / methods
  • Tick-Borne Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Tick-Borne Diseases / prevention & control*
  • United States / epidemiology

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Insect Repellents