Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/July 27, 2023
A probable case of anaplasmosis (human granulocytic anaplasmosis) has been identified in the Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) region. Anaplasmosis is caused by a type of bacteria that is transmitted to humans by the bite of a blacklegged tick, the same kind of tick that transmits Lyme disease. This is the first probable case of anaplasmosis identified in the region since the disease was identified as a reportable disease of public health significance in Ontario on July 1, 2023. A case is considered probable when an individual has compatible signs and symptoms of the disease and is likely to have had exposure to the disease.
For most people, anaplasmosis is a mild illness. Symptoms usually resolve within 30 days, even without treatment; however, it can be more severe in certain individuals. Those at greater risk for severe illness include older individuals and those who have a weakened immune system. A delay in diagnosis and treatment may also result in more severe illness.
An individual might be at risk of anaplasmosis if they are bitten by a blacklegged tick carrying the Anaplasma phagocytophilum bacterium, and the tick is attached for at least 12 hours. The first symptoms of anaplasmosis usually appear within one to two weeks after being bitten by an infected tick. Symptoms can include:
- Fever and chills
- Severe headache
- Muscle aches
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and have recently been bitten by a tick, or been in a tick habitat, please contact your health care provider. Your health care provider can order blood tests to look for evidence of anaplasmosis. They may prescribe antibiotics while you wait for test results if anaplasmosis or another infection caused by ticks is suspected.
For more information on ticks, tick-borne diseases, and how to protect yourself from tick bites, visit our website.
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For more information contact:
Maureen Hyland, Communications Specialist
Jessica Klein, Communications Specialist
About Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is a public health agency that serves the counties of Hastings and Prince Edward from four local offices. HPEPH is situated and provides services on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee people. We monitor the health of our local population, deliver programs and services within our communities, and help develop healthy public policies. We provide information and support in many areas to help improve the health and well-being of our residents. Together with our communities, we help people become as healthy as they can be. For more information, please visit hpePublicHealth.ca. You can also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
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