Ehrlichiosis

Lone Star Tick

 

Ehrlichiosis (formerly called human monocytic ehrlichiosis) is most commonly caused by the bacterium Ehrlichia chaffeensis, and less commonly by Ehrlichia ewingii. It is spread to people through the bite of an infected Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum). The bacterium can cause severe illness in some people. Treatment is available; however if it is delayed, or there are underlying medical conditions, symptoms can become more severe. The best way to prevent Ehrlichiosis is to prevent tick bites.

 

About Ehrlichiosis

 

Information for Clinicians

 

Clinical Guidance (CDC)

National Surveillance Case Definition

 

Connecticut Provider Reporting Information

Reportable Disease Confidential Case Report, PD-23

Connecticut Laboratory Reporting Information

Reportable Laboratory Findings form, OL-15C

 

Directory of Clinical Testing Services provided by the State Public Health Laboratory

State Public Health Laboratory Contacts – for additional information

 

Tick-borne Diseases of the United States – a Reference Manual for Healthcare Providers

 

Connecticut Ehrlichiosis Surveillance

In 2008, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention established a surveillance case definition for Ehrlichiosis and the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) added the disease to the list of state-wide reportable diseases. During 2008-2018, only 2 cases have been reported to the DPH. Ehrlichia chaffeensis is the main cause of illness in Connecticut. Other species include Ehrlichia ewingii and Ehlichia muris.

Cases of Ehrlichiosis reported to the DPH from January 1 – December 31, 2019.

2 - Confirmed

 

Connecticut Annual Infectious Diseases Statistics

 

 

 

This page last updated 1/14/2020.