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Dog Health: Tick Fever in Hong Kong (Babesiosis & Ehrlichiosis)

Tick

By Dr. Ryan Chuang


In Hong Kong, "Tick Fever" is a common term for two distinct diseases transmitted by tick bites. Because both typically cause fever, they are grouped under one name, but they require different medical approaches.


1. Babesiosis (A Blood Parasite)


What is Babesia?

It is a protozoal parasite that attacks red blood cells. In Hong Kong, Babesia gibsoni is the most prevalent species, followed by Babesia canis.

Transmission & Symptoms

  • Transmission: Primarily via tick bites (after 2-3 days of attachment), dog fights (blood contact), or maternal transmission (mother to pup).

  • Symptoms: Fever, loss of appetite, lethargy, pale gums (anemia), and in severe cases, jaundice or dark "tea-colored" urine (hemoglobinuria).


Diagnosis & Treatment

  • Diagnosis: PCR Testing is the most accurate. Microscopic blood smears are helpful but may yield false negatives.

  • Treatment Options:

    • Atovaquone & Azithromycin: Often called "Liquid Gold" due to its color and high price. It offers a fast 10-14day course but faces increasing drug resistance.

    • Triple Combination (Clindamycin, Metronidazole, Doxycycline): A 2020 Hong Kong study showed this combination has a higher success rate in completely clearing the parasite, though it requires a longer course (1 to 3 months).


2. Ehrlichiosis (A Bacterial Infection)


What is Ehrlichia?

Unlike Babesia, Ehrlichia is a type of bacteria. It generally requires at least 24 hours of tick attachment to infect a dog.


Symptoms & Diagnosis

  • Symptoms: Fever and lethargy appear 1-2 weeks post-infection. Blood tests typically reveal low platelets (thrombocytopenia) and low white/red blood cell counts.

  • Diagnosis: PCR Testing is the gold standard. Antibody tests only confirm past exposure, not necessarily an active infection.


Treatment

The primary treatment is Doxycycline (Antibiotic) for at least 4 weeks. Most dogs show significant improvement within 24-48 hours of starting treatment.


3. Prevention: The Only Real Defense


Given the high prevalence of ticks in Hong Kong’s vegetation, prevention is critical:

  • Strict Prevention Protocols: Use effective oral or topical tick preventatives year-round.

  • Avoid High-Risk Areas: Steer clear of long grass and bushy areas where ticks thrive.


(Article by Dr. Ryan Chuang. Reproduction without permission is prohibited; sharing with original attribution is welcomed.)



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