Tick-Borne Diseases: Are You at Risk? New Insights into Ehrlichia ewingii Infections

Ehrlichiosis is a bacterial infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks. In the United States, while *Ehrlichia chaffeensis* was considered the primary cause, recent findings indicate a higher rate of infection from *Ehrlichia ewingii* than previously known. The study highlights the expanding threat and wider geographic distribution of *Ehrlichia ewingii*, emphasizing the importance of understanding the risks and symptoms associated with tick-borne diseases.

*Ehrlichia ewingii* is significant because recent studies suggest it is more prevalent and has a wider geographic distribution in the U.S. than previously understood. This means more people may be at risk of contracting the infection than previously thought. The implication is that cases of *Ehrlichia ewingii* may have been underreported, and healthcare providers need to be more aware of its presence when diagnosing tick-borne illnesses.

Symptoms of Ehrlichiosis, caused by bacteria such as *Ehrlichia ewingii* and *Ehrlichia chaffeensis*, can include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches (myalgia), a general feeling of discomfort (malaise), thrombocytopenia (a decrease in blood platelets), leukopenia (a decrease in white blood cells), and elevated liver enzymes. It’s important to note that these symptoms are similar to those of Anaplasmosis, caused by *Anaplasma phagocytophilum*, another tick-borne illness. Therefore, accurate diagnosis is crucial.

Zoonotic diseases, like Ehrlichiosis caused by *Ehrlichia ewingii*, spread from animals to humans. In the United States, the disease is caused by different *Ehrlichia* species, including *Ehrlichia chaffeensis*, *Ehrlichia ewingii*, and a less common E. muris-like pathogen. The primary vectors for spreading *Ehrlichia chaffeensis* and *Ehrlichia ewingii* are *Amblyomma americanum* ticks, also known as lone star ticks, found mainly in the eastern and southeastern United States. Knowing this helps understand where infections are more likely and take appropriate precautions.

To protect yourself from tick-borne diseases like Ehrlichiosis, caused by bacteria such as *Ehrlichia ewingii*, it is important to take preventive measures against tick bites. These measures include using insect repellent with DEET, wearing long sleeves and pants when in wooded or grassy areas, and performing thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors. Removing ticks promptly and seeking medical attention if you develop symptoms after a tick bite are also critical steps in preventing tick-borne illnesses. It is also important to be aware of the ticks common to your geographic area. For example, *Amblyomma americanum* (lone star tick) is most common in the eastern and southeastern United States.