What temperature results from a tick bite? - briefly
A tick bite usually does not produce a noticeable rise in body temperature; a fever may develop only if an infection, such as Lyme disease, is transmitted, typically ranging from 37.5 °C to 38.5 °C.
What temperature results from a tick bite? - in detail
A tick bite can trigger an elevation of body temperature, but the exact degree varies with the pathogen transmitted and the individual’s response.
In most cases of early Lyme disease, fever is modest. Core temperature typically rises to 37.5–38.5 °C (99.5–101.3 °F) within a few days of the bite. The fever may be intermittent and often coincides with other early signs such as erythema migrans, fatigue, and headache.
When the bite transmits Rickettsia rickettsii (Rocky Mountain spotted fever), the febrile response is more pronounced. Patients commonly present with temperatures of 39–40 °C (102.2–104 °F) or higher, sometimes exceeding 41 °C (105.8 °F). The high fever usually appears 2–5 days after exposure and is accompanied by rash, myalgia, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Infections with Anaplasma phagocytophilum (human granulocytic anaplasmosis) produce a fever in the range of 38–39 °C (100.4–102.2 °F). The onset is typically 5–14 days post‑bite, and the temperature may fluctuate during the acute phase.
Other tick‑borne illnesses, such as babesiosis or ehrlichiosis, also cause febrile episodes, generally between 38–40 °C (100.4–104 °F). The fever pattern can be continuous or episodic, depending on disease severity and host immunity.
Key points summarizing temperature outcomes:
- Mild fever (37.5–38.5 °C) – early Lyme disease, often transient.
- Moderate to high fever (38–40 °C) – anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, babesiosis.
- Severe fever (≥39 °C, up to >41 °C) – Rocky Mountain spotted fever, may indicate severe systemic involvement.
Temperature alone does not confirm a specific tick‑borne infection; clinical context, exposure history, and laboratory testing are essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.