As temperatures rise and Missourians eagerly embrace outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and gardening, it's crucial to be aware of the hidden dangers lurking in our natural surroundings—ticks and the diseases they transmit. While many associate tick-borne illnesses primarily with Lyme disease, Missouri residents face specific threats from other tick-related diseases that can have serious health implications.
As a plaintiff’s medical malpractice attorney, I've encountered cases where delayed or missed diagnoses of these diseases have led to severe complications. Notably, many individuals who contract tick-borne illnesses do not recall being bitten, making awareness and early recognition of symptoms even more vital. In fact, studies have shown that most patients diagnosed with tick-borne diseases do not recall a tick bite, underscoring the importance of vigilance. Tick borne illnesses can be passed by immature ticks, which may be small and never attach. Immature tick bites can look and feel like "chigger" bites.
Missouri is home to several tick-borne diseases, including:
Ehrlichiosis
Transmitted primarily by the Lone Star tick (*Amblyomma americanum*), ehrlichiosis is prevalent in Missouri. Symptoms typically appear within one to two weeks of infection and can include:
- Fever and chills
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Confusion or neurological symptoms in severe cases
Without prompt treatment, ehrlichiosis can lead to severe complications, including organ failure. Early diagnosis is crucial, with doxycycline being the standard antibiotic treatment.
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF)
Despite its name, RMSF is prevalent in Missouri and is transmitted by the American dog tick (*Dermacentor variabilis*). Symptoms usually develop within 2 to 14 days after infection and include:
- Sudden high fever
- Severe headache
- Rash (often starting on wrists, forearms, and ankles before spreading)
- Muscle pain
- Nausea and vomiting
RMSF can be life-threatening if not treated promptly with doxycycline. Delays in treatment increase the risk of complications, including damage to blood vessels, neurological issues, and organ failure.
Tularemia (Rabbit Fever)
Tularemia is a rare but serious bacterial infection caused by *Francisella tularensis* and can be transmitted by tick bites, particularly from the Lone Star tick and American dog tick. Symptoms depend on how the bacteria enter the body but may include:
- Skin ulcers at the site of the bite
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever and chills
- Eye irritation if the bacteria enter through the eyes
- Pneumonia-like symptoms in severe cases
Tularemia requires prompt treatment with antibiotics such as streptomycin or doxycycline.
Heartland Virus
An emerging tick-borne illness first identified in Missouri in 2009, Heartland virus is transmitted by the Lone Star tick. There is no specific treatment beyond supportive care. Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
- Loss of appetite
Since it is a viral illness, antibiotics are ineffective, and severe cases may require hospitalization for supportive care.
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Another emerging tick-borne virus, Bourbon virus, was first detected in a Missouri resident in 2014. Like Heartland virus, it is transmitted by the Lone Star tick and has no known treatment. Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Rash
- Nausea
- Low white blood cell and platelet counts
Because Bourbon virus is still being studied, much remains unknown about its long-term effects.
The best way to avoid tick-borne illnesses is to prevent tick bites altogether. Here are some key prevention strategies:
- Use insect repellent with DEET or wear permethrin-treated clothing.
- Wear long sleeves and pants when in wooded or grassy areas.
- Perform thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors.
- Shower within two hours of coming inside to help remove unattached ticks.
- Remove ticks promptly using fine-tipped tweezers, grasping them close to the skin and pulling straight out.
If you or a loved one develops symptoms like fever, rash, or muscle pain after potential tick exposure, seek medical attention immediately. Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics can prevent severe complications.
Delayed or misdiagnosed tick-borne illnesses can lead to serious health consequences. If a healthcare provider fails to recognize the symptoms of these infections and delays treatment, the consequences can be devastating. If you or someone you know has suffered harm due to a delayed diagnosis, you may have legal options.
Missouri’s tick season is already underway. By taking preventive measures and recognizing the early warning signs of tick-borne illnesses, you can protect yourself and your family from these potentially life-threatening diseases. If you believe you’ve suffered from medical negligence related to a tick borne illness, contact our office to discuss. Hendricksonlaw.com
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