Tick-borne infections in the United States.

Abstract

Patients with illnesses caused by ticks may present with flulike symptoms. Physicians should learn how to recognize these illnesses by specific aspects in the patients' histories and physical examinations. Prevention of mortality and morbidity may depend on correct early diagnosis and treatment. Illness prevention may result with early removal of the tick, because infection usually requires 24 to 48 hours of attachment to the host. A bite from one tick may transmit several different pathogens leading to concurrent infections. The prevention of tick-borne illnesses can start with advice on how to prevent tick bites, especially during summer time.