General information, not a diagnosis Method and limitations

CompareUseful differences

Compare infectious diseases

The same route of exposure may involve very different agents. Compare the mechanisms and prevention, then consult the original records and sources.

Choose up to four diseases

Agents, Exposures and Prevention

Documentary comparison of 3 diseases; no estimate of individual risk
BenchmarkRocky Mountain spotted feverAnaplasmosisEhrlichiosis
AgentRickettsia rickettsiiAnaplasma phagocytophilumEhrlichia spp.
FamilyBacteriaBacteriaBacteria
Paths and contextsVector
Vector
Vector
What distinguishes diseaseRickettsiosis transmitted by certain ticks and can evolve rapidly to a severe disease.Bacterial infection transmitted by ticks, especially in certain regions of North America, Europe and Asia.A group of tick-borne bacterial infections that can become severe without rapid treatment.
PreventionPrevent tick bites, inspect the body and seek prompt advice on symptoms after exposure.Covered clothing, repellents, body inspection and rapid tick removal.Prevent tick bites and seek prompt advice in case of fever after exposure.
DeepeningForm →
CDC — référence ↗
Form →
CDC — référence ↗
Form →
CDC — référence ↗
Diagnosis and monitoringBlood tests can take time. The care decision is based on clinical suspicion and exposure, without waiting for all the evidence.Blood tests are looking for infection. Specify the location, date of activities and treatment already started to guide interpretation.Blood tests are looking for ehrlichiosis or other causes. The results may be delayed; they must not delay the care of a worrying suspicion.
Preparing for an exchange with a professional
  • Countries and activities in tick zones
  • Fever onset and eruption
  • Outings and exhibition area
  • Fever and beginning of pain
  • Region and activities in the natural environment
  • Fever dates and associated signs

What this table allows to understand

The selected records cover 1 agent family/families. They share the following routes or contexts in our catalogue: Vector. These associations describe the selected data; they do not measure contagiousness, severity or personal risk.

To review a comparison, choose one row and open the reference for each column. A preventive measure mentioned in one record and absent from another is not necessarily unnecessary in the second situation: the summaries and their scope may differ.

If symptoms occurThe table does not select any test or treatment. A fever after a stay in the malaria area should be reported promptly, even if prevention has been taken.
Understanding agent, vector and exposure →

Further reading

These publications help you verify the concepts discussed. Disease records and directory entries each identify their sources.

The content modification date does not mean that every source has undergone a new medical review. Verification method and scope.