Anaplasmosis

• Fever (often high, with chills)
• Headache
• Muscle aches (myalgia)
• Fatigue and malaise
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite
• Joint pain
• Less common: Cough, abdominal pain, rash (rarely)

Anaplasmosis is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick. In the United States, the **blacklegged tick** (*Ixodes scapularis*) is the main vector in the Northeast and Midwest, and the **western blacklegged tick** (*Ixodes pacificus*) on the Pacific coast. Ticks acquire the bacteria by feeding on infected animals such as white-footed mice and other small mammals, then transmit it during subsequent blood meals.

• Avoid tick-infested areas, especially during peak tick season.
• Wear protective clothing (long sleeves, long pants tucked into socks) when outdoors.
• Use EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or permethrin.
• Perform daily tick checks on yourself, children, and pets after outdoor activities.
• Shower within two hours of coming indoors to wash off potential ticks.
• Remove attached ticks promptly and correctly using fine-tipped tweezers.