Anaplasma bovis Infection in Fever and Thrombocytopenia Patients — Anhui Province, China, 2021

Abstract

What is already known about this topic? The genus Anaplasma contains seven recognized bacterial species, mainly transmitted by tick bites. The two species, A. phagocytophilum and A. capra, are known commonly to cause diseases in humans. What is added by this report? Anaplasma bovis was initially thought to be only an animal agent until the first patient case was reported in 2019. This study investigated another two patients who became sick within one month in the same township and were infected with A. bovis in Anhui Province. What are the implications for public health practice? This study suggested that more A. bovis-infected patients may exist in this area and that patients with anaplasmosis require an early and specific diagnosis.