Illinois has confirmed its first case of a rare tickborne illness, alarming health officials. The bacterium Ehrlichia muris eauclairensis (EME), found in Lake County, poses serious health risks to humans if not promptly treated and can potentially be lethal.
EME is transmitted through bites from infected blacklegged ticks, which are also responsible for spreading Lyme disease and other tickborne ailments. This particular bacterium was first detected in Wisconsin in 2009, with all human cases previously occurring in Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Part of a group of bacteria that lead to illnesses called ehrlichiosis, EME symptoms typically manifest within a week or two after a bite. Common signs include fever, chills, headaches, muscle aches, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues. If not treated with antibiotics quickly, complications can arise, potentially leading to severe health consequences, including brain damage and organ failure, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to severe effects. However, anyone who postpones treatment may be at risk.
While ehrlichiosis in Illinois is usually linked to Lone star ticks in the southern region, this recent case highlights that blacklegged ticks can also carry EME-related bacteria. Thankfully, no fatalities from this condition have been reported in the U.S. as of now, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
Blacklegged ticks thrive in forested areas and tall grass, especially from October to December or during milder winter days, as noted by the Illinois Department of Public Health.
Dr. Sameer Vohra, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, emphasized the necessity of vigilant tick monitoring following this discovery. He advised anyone spending time outdoors, especially hunters, to check for ticks regularly and remove any found.
“If you develop symptoms associated with tickborne illnesses—such as fever, chills, or muscle aches—seek medical attention immediately and inform your provider about potential tick exposure for testing and treatment,” Vohra recommended.
To minimize the risk of contracting EME, the health department suggests the following precautions:
- Stick to the center of trails and steer clear of overgrown areas.
- Wear light-colored clothing to spot ticks more easily and tuck pants into socks.
- Use EPA-registered insect repellent.
- Treat clothing and gear with insect repellents.
- Heat-dry clothes for 10 minutes to kill ticks.
- Shower within two hours of returning indoors.
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