Tick-borne Diseases

Tick-borne Diseases (TBD)

The most common tick-borne diseases diagnosed in Northern Michigan are:
  • Anaplasmosis
  • Babesiosis
  • Ehrlichiosis
  • Lyme Disease
  • Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF)
  • Powassan Virus Disease
Notes
  • Ticks found crawling and unattached on skin are not considered a risk for TBD transmission.
  • Ticks emerge when snow melts and stay active until temperatures fall below freezing.

Clinical Guidance

Diagnosis

Symptoms can be non-specific and may include:

  • Rash (not associated with all TBDs and may not be an early indicator)
  • Unexplained fever in the summer (can indicate tick-borne infection)
  • Chills
  • Myalgia
  • Severe headache
  • Gastrointestinal manifestations
     

Testing

Although diagnostic testing can help guide clinical management, do not delay therapy if a TBD is suspected. Prompt treatment can prevent severe disease. 

MHC Labs can test for tick-borne pathogens, including anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis. Read the related LabMed Report.

Labs often indicate cytopenias and transaminitis, particularly with Anaplasmosis and Ehrlichiosis.
 

Treatment

For post-exposure prophylaxis and TBD treatment guidance, visit CDC: Tickborne Disease of the U.S. 
 

Anaplasmosis
Babesiosis
Ehrlichiosis
Lyme Disease
Powassan Virus Disease
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF)

Consults/Referrals

Munson's Infectious Disease Consults is available for consults and referrals. For details on how to consult/refer, click here.
 

Clinician Education

Patient Resources