Ehrlichiosis
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.
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.