Tick-Associated Diseases

Abstract

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are eleven tick-associated diseases prevalent in the United States. Most commonly diagnosed are Lyme disease, anaplasmosis (ehrlichiosis) and babeisois, with Lyme disease being the most common vector-borne disease in the country. In southeastern states, studies have shown the prevalence of southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI), which is similar to Lyme disease. Healthy People 2010's 14-8 objective is to reduce Lyme disease, with a “44 percent improvement” by the year 2010. A key component for success of this objective is to provide the public with important information that can yield early detection or prevention against tick-associated disease, such as Lyme disease. Additionally, awareness of signs, symptoms and how to protect oneself from tick-borne illnesses is critical for individuals living in regions where these diseases are most prevalent. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is twofold: (1) to convey the signs, symptoms, and clinical tests for early detection of Lyme disease and STARI, and (2) to provide guidelines and discussion of some treatment controversies for health educators to utilize in educating the public on personal protection against tick-associated illnesses.