Anaplasmosis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Spending time outdoors for work, travel, or leisure is a routine part of life. In some environments, exposure to ticks can occur during these activities and may lead to infections called anaplasmosis. 

It is a tick-borne bacterial infection that enters the body through the bite of an infected tick. The bacteria affect white blood cells and interfere with the immune system. In this blog, we will explain anaplasmosis in detail, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Understanding Anaplasmosis

Anaplasmosis, also known as human granulocytic anaplasmosis, is caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum bacteria. Once inside the body, it targets granulocytes, a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in immune defence. When cells are infected, the infection weakens the immune response. This led to symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and muscle aches.

While HGAs affect people of any age, here are certain individuals are more likely to develop severe illness:

• Adults over 50 years of age
• People with weakened immune systems (due to HIV, cancer, or immunosuppressive medications)
• Individuals who do not receive treatment within the first few days of symptoms

Causes of Anaplasmosis

The main cause of HGA is infection through tick bites. Ticks can acquire the bacteria from animals and transmit them to humans. While anyone can be exposed, certain environmental, seasonal, and health factors

Transmission via Tick Bite

HGA is most commonly transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged tick. During feeding, the tick injects Anaplasma phagocytophilum bacteria directly into the bloodstream. Prompt removal of ticks reduces the risk of infection. Even a single bite can be sufficient to transmit the bacteria if the tick remains attached long enough.

Tick Habitat and Environment

Ticks thrive in wooded areas, tall grasses, and dense vegetation. People living, working, or spending time in these environments have a higher chance of encountering ticks carrying the bacteria. Routine outdoor activities like hiking, gardening, or farming can increase exposure, making awareness of tick habitats important for prevention.

Animal Hosts

Wild animals, such as deer, rodents, and small mammals, act as natural reservoirs for Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Humans may become infected when bitten by ticks that have previously fed on these infected hosts, completing the transmission cycle.

Seasonal Activity of Ticks

Ticks are most active during spring and summer months, making these the peak periods for HGA cases. Warmer temperatures and increased outdoor activity during these seasons contribute to higher human-tick interactions.

Compromised Immune Function

Individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of HGA. Age, chronic illnesses such as diabetes or cancer, and use of immunosuppressive medications can reduce the body’s ability to fight infection. These individuals may experience more severe symptoms and require timely medical intervention.

Symptoms of Anaplasmosis

Symptoms of HGA often begin within one to two weeks after a tick bite. They are usually mild at first and may resemble common viral infections, which can delay diagnosis.

Fever and Chills

Fever is one of the most common early symptoms of Hga and is often accompanied by chills. The rise in body temperature reflects the immune system’s response to bacterial infection. Fever may appear suddenly and persist for several days if the infection remains untreated.

Fatigue and General Weakness

Many individuals experience marked tiredness and low energy levels. This fatigue can interfere with daily activities and may persist even when the fever subsides. It occurs because the bacteria affect white blood cells, reducing the body’s ability to maintain normal immune and metabolic function.

Headache and Muscle Aches

Headaches and muscle pain are frequent symptoms and can range from mild to moderate intensity. Muscle aches often affect large muscle groups such as the arms, legs, and back. These symptoms result from inflammation triggered by the body’s response to infection.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Some people develop nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or abdominal discomfort. These digestive symptoms are not always present but may occur as the infection affects multiple body systems. Gastrointestinal involvement can contribute to dehydration and weakness if symptoms persist.

Treatment Options for Anaplasmosis

Treatment for HGA focuses on eliminating the bacterial infection and preventing complications. Early medical intervention is important, as timely treatment usually leads to rapid improvement and reduces the risk of severe illness.

Antibiotic Therapy

Antibiotics are the primary treatment for HGA. Doxycycline is commonly prescribed and is effective in stopping bacterial growth. Treatment is usually started based on symptoms and suspected exposure, even before test results are confirmed, to ensure prompt recovery.

Early Initiation of Treatment

Starting antibiotics early significantly improves outcomes. Delayed treatment can increase the risk of complications, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. Many patients show improvement within a few days of beginning therapy when treatment is initiated promptly.

Symptom Management and Supportive Care

Supportive care helps manage symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches during recovery. This may include adequate hydration, rest, and medications recommended by a healthcare provider. Supportive measures do not replace antibiotics but help improve comfort during treatment.

Hospitalisation for Severe Cases

In more severe cases, hospitalisation may be required, especially for individuals with complications or underlying health conditions. Inpatient care allows for close monitoring, intravenous antibiotics if needed, and management of dehydration or organ-related issues.

Follow-Up and Recovery Monitoring

After completing treatment, follow-up care ensures symptoms have resolved, and no complications remain. Most people recover fully with appropriate therapy. Monitoring is especially important for those who experienced severe illness or had delayed treatment.

Prevention Tips for Anaplasmosis

Preventing HGA focuses on reducing exposure to ticks and taking simple protective measures, especially during outdoor activities. Awareness and consistent preventive habits can significantly lower the risk of infection.

Avoid Tick-Prone Areas When Possible

Ticks are commonly found in wooded areas, tall grasses, and dense vegetation. Limiting time spent in these environments, especially during peak tick seasons, can reduce the likelihood of exposure. When outdoor activities are necessary, staying on clear paths helps minimise contact with ticks.

Wear Protective Clothing Outdoors

Wearing long-sleeved shirts, full-length trousers, and closed shoes creates a physical barrier against ticks. Light-coloured clothing makes it easier to spot ticks before they attach to the skin. Tucking trousers into socks can further reduce tick access.

Use Tick Repellents Safely

Applying tick repellents to skin or clothing can help deter ticks. Products containing approved ingredients should be used according to instructions. Repellents are particularly useful during outdoor work or recreation in areas known for tick activity.

Perform Regular Tick Checks

After spending time outdoors, checking the body for ticks helps identify and remove them early. Pay attention to hidden areas such as behind the knees, underarms, scalp, and waistline. Early detection reduces the chance of bacterial transmission.

Maintain Outdoor Spaces

Keeping lawns trimmed, removing leaf litter, and reducing dense vegetation around homes can make environments less favourable for ticks. Managing outdoor areas helps lower the risk of ticks entering living spaces, especially in residential or recreational settings.

Final Thoughts

Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne infection that often begins with mild, non-specific symptoms but can become more serious if left untreated. Early recognition, timely medical care, and appropriate antibiotic treatment are key to ensuring a smooth recovery and preventing complications.

For individuals who travel frequently or live outside their home country, managing unexpected illnesses can be more complex due to unfamiliar healthcare systems and varying treatment costs. In such situations, having access to a well-structured health insurance plan designed for NRIs, offered by established providers such as Niva Bupa NRI Health Insurance, can help support continuity of care and reduce financial stress while focusing on recovery abroad.

FAQ

1. What causes anaplasmosis in humans?

Anaplasmosis is caused by the bacteria Anaplasma phagocytophilum, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks.

2. How long after a tick bite do symptoms of HGA appear?

Symptoms usually develop within one to two weeks after a tick bite, though the onset may vary depending on individual health and immune response.

3. Can anaplasmosis occur without noticing a tick bite?

Yes, many people do not recall being bitten, as ticks can be very small and their bites are often painless.

4. What are the first warning signs of HGA?

Early signs typically include fever, fatigue, headache, and muscle aches, which may resemble common viral illnesses.

5. How is HGA different from other tick-borne diseases?

HGA primarily affects white blood cells and often does not cause a rash, unlike some other tick-borne infections.

6. When should someone seek medical care for suspected HGA?

Medical care should be sought if flu-like symptoms develop after possible tick exposure, especially during tick-active seasons.

7. Can HGA be resolved without treatment?

Without antibiotic treatment, HGA may worsen and lead to complications, particularly in older adults or immunocompromised individuals.

8. What tests are used to confirm anaplasmosis?

Blood tests that detect bacterial DNA, antibodies, or changes in blood cell counts are commonly used for diagnosis.

9. What is the standard treatment duration for anaplasmosis?

Antibiotic treatment usually lasts 7 to 14 days, depending on symptom severity and clinical response.

10. Can anaplasmosis recur after treatment?

Recurrence is uncommon when the infection is treated appropriately, though reinfection can occur after a new tick bite.

11. Are children at risk of anaplasmosis?

Yes, children can develop anaplasmosis, especially if they spend time outdoors in tick-endemic areas.

12. Does anaplasmosis cause long-term health problems?

Most people recover fully with timely treatment, though delayed therapy may increase the risk of prolonged recovery.

13. Is hospitalisation always required for HGA?

Hospitalisation is not always necessary, but may be required for severe cases or when complications develop.

14. Can HGA be prevented through vaccination?

Currently, there is no vaccine for HGA. Prevention relies on reducing exposure to ticks.

15. Is HGA more dangerous for people with weakened immunity?

Yes, individuals with compromised immune systems are more likely to experience severe symptoms and complications.