A rare tick-borne illness is making its rounds in new parts of America, with babesiosis expanding its range across the country. The disease, spread through blacklegged or deer tick bites, can be especially dangerous for those with weakened immune systems.
According to a recent study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology, babesiosis has been “historically concentrated in the Northeast and Upper Midwest” but is now expanding in the mid-Atlantic region. Rising cases have been reported in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin.
Experts warn that climate change is to blame for the increase in tick populations, which are spreading disease more widely. Warmer temperatures and reforestation efforts have created ideal conditions for ticks to thrive, while suburban expansion has brought humans closer to their habitats.
Babesiosis can cause severe symptoms, including fever, chills, anemia, fatigue, and jaundice. If left untreated, the parasites that infect red blood cells can lead to organ failure and death. The disease is more likely to affect older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
The connection between babesiosis and Lyme disease is still being researched, but experts suspect that ticks infected with one disease may be more susceptible to infection with the other. As climate change continues to alter ecosystems, the risk of tick-borne illnesses is expected to rise.
While there are not many reported cases of babesiosis so far, medical experts urge increased awareness and education on how to prevent infection, recognize symptoms, and provide appropriate treatment.
Source: https://theweek.com/health/babesiosis-tick-borne-illness-america-us