Cumulative severity scores for both low- and high-passage-infected horses, with three animals represented in each group. Clinical parameters that were examined and included in the severity score were ataxia (grade 1 to 5), lethargy (grade 1 to 4), limb swelling (grade 1 to 4), reluctance to move (grade 1 to 4), and presence of petechiae (number observed on oral mucosa). Aph, A. phagocytophilum.