6 Facts To Help You Protect Yourself From Human Ehrlichiosis

Human Ehrlichiosis can result in serious health problems if left undiagnosed and is not treated as soon as possible. Here are some useful facts about Human Ehrlichiosis:

Understand the nature and cause of Human Ehrlichiosis

An infection caused by the bacteria Ehrlichia is known as Human Ehrlichiosis. When an infected tick, either a lone star or deer tick, bites a human; the Ehrlichia is transmitted into the bloodstream. Transmission from one person to another is not possible. Cases of Ehrlichiosis have been discovered in the south-central and southeast areas of America. Incidents have also been reported in California, as well as in the mid-western and north-eastern states.

Find out the types of Ehrlichiosis

Human Ehrlichiosis is commonly categorized into either Human Monocytic Ehrlichiosis (HME) or Human Granulocutic Ehrlichiosis (HGE), which are named on the basis of what kind of white blood cells they infect. The first type of Ehrlichiosis attacks the monocytes while the latter attacks the granulocytes.

Be aware of the disease’s different symptoms

Symptoms of Ehrlichiosis will begin to show after a five to ten day incubation time following the tick bite. These symptoms usually are high fever, weakness, major muscle pains and headaches. Rash, cough, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are also its other symptoms. While most cases of Ehrlichia infection exhibit the aforementioned symptoms, some cases develop only very mild or no signs at all.

Learn about the diagnostic procedures and cure

The diagnostic procedure for Human Ehrlichiosis begins with the signs of the infection that shows after a tick bite. The presence of the Ehrlichia bacteria, high levels of enzymes, low platelet count and low blood cell count will be determined using special laboratory and blood tests. The infection can be treated with antibiotics, particularly doxycycline. Rifampin is an alternative medication for cases of pregnant women or people who are allergic to doxycycline.

Understand the complications of Ehrlichiosis

As the bacteria spread throughout the body, Human Ehrlichiosis can cause serious conditions and complications so it should be diagnosed and treated immediately. It can result in low white blood cell and platelet counts. Some of the complications are very high fever, seizures, increased mental confusion, severe joint pain, and in some, severe cases of kidney failure. In some cases, even deaths are reported.

Know preventive measures against it

The most important step in preventing infection is avoiding tick bites. Make it a point to avoid going around areas with a high tick population, even more so during peak months or when there are numerous cases of Ehrlichiosis being reported. It is imperative that when you visit forested regions or bushy areas, you should dress in clothes that completely cover your body such as long sleeved shirts, long trousers, socks, closed footwear and hats. Protect your exposed body parts like your hands and neck with insect repellant. The bacteria can be transmitted if the tick remains stuck on the body for about 24 hours so always check your clothes and body for any signs of ticks. To ensure that you immediately remove any ticks on your body; take a shower after spending time outside.

It is always better to prevent an infection than it is to find a cure for it, so always take the extra precautions to avoid getting infected with Ehrlichiosis and its complications.