Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens

Ticks are obligate ectoparasites which feed on the blood of their hosts. They cause physical damage to their hosts by injuring skin and sucking blood. Furthermore, majority of the species of tick have the capability to transmit pathogens to their hosts. They are often more active in warmer months and a change in the populations of their hosts affects tick populations. Tick-borne diseases are those diseases that afflict humans and animals, and are caused by infectious agents transmitted by tick bites. Various pathogens comprising rickettsia and other types of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa are the primary causes of the infection resulting in diseases. There are various symptoms a person may feel after being bitten by a tick such as body aches, fever, fatigue, joint pain or rashes. This book provides comprehensive insights on ticks and tick-borne pathogens. It presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe. Those with an interest in these pathogens would find this book helpful.