Exposure to Ticks and their Pathogens in Northeast Missouri

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Public Health
• Vector-borne Diseases

Background:

• Quantified tick-borne pathogen prevalence in Adair County, Missouri.
• Limited data on resident disease acquisition and medical consultation post-tick bite.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the prevalence of tick bites, subsequent symptoms, and healthcare-seeking behaviors in Adair County residents.
• To compare diagnosed tick-borne illnesses with confirmed state-reported cases to identify potential diagnostic discrepancies.

Main Methods:

• Public survey (n=109) on tick exposure, symptoms, and healthcare consultations.
• Practitioner survey on treated tick-borne diseases.
• Comparison with Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services data (2013-2017).

Main Results:

• 96% of respondents reported finding ticks; 38% developed symptoms; 55% consulted healthcare providers.
• 89% of practitioners treated patients for tick-borne diseases.
• Ehrlichiosis confirmed cases were low, while Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease were frequently diagnosed but potentially overdiagnosed.

Conclusions:

• Tick exposure is frequent in Adair County, Missouri.
• Ehrlichiosis infections are likely underdiagnosed.
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease diagnoses may be overdiagnosed by healthcare providers.