Babesiosis On the Rise: What's Critical to Know About this Tick-Borne Disease

Babesiosis on the Rise in Maryland: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

Summer in the Eastern U.S. means warm weather, longer hikes—and unfortunately, a growing risk of tick-borne illnesses. While Lyme disease often dominates the conversation, another stealthy threat is spreading across Maryland: babesiosis.

According to a recent report in the Baltimore Sun, this malaria-like parasite is gaining ground in the Mid-Atlantic, driven by warming winters and expanding tick habitats.

What Is Babesiosis?

Babesiosis is caused by a parasite known as Babesia microti, transmitted primarily by the black-legged tick (also known as the deer tick). Once inside the body, this protozoan invades red blood cells, causing symptoms similar to malaria.

It can often go undetected or misdiagnosed, with symptoms that include:

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Body aches

• Chills

• Headaches

Because symptoms often resemble the flu, babesiosis is frequently overlooked, especially in its early stages. In fact, studies show that up to 50% of diagnosed cases went unnoticed for an extended period.

Why Maryland? Why Now?

Rising temperatures and humid summer months are creating ideal conditions for ticks to thrive. In Maryland's woodlands and suburban green spaces, ticks like the deer tick and Lone Star tick are becoming increasingly common—bringing diseases like babesiosis right to your backyard.

This isn't just a problem for hikers. Outdoor workers, dog owners, campers, and even families enjoying local parks are at risk of tick exposure during everyday activities.

How Is Babesiosis Diagnosed and Treated?

If you suspect you may have babesiosis, a doctor can confirm the infection through:

• PCR testing (detects parasite DNA)

• Blood smears (to identify parasites in red blood cells)

Babesiosis is typically treated with standard antiparasitic and antibiotic medications, but like most tick-borne illnesses, early detection is critical for a smoother recovery.

Why This Matters for You—and How to Protect Yourself

Babesiosis is no longer rare in Maryland. It’s spreading further north each year, and experts warn that tick-borne diseases are becoming year-round concerns rather than seasonal.

But that doesn’t mean you have to avoid the outdoors.

✔️ Stick to clear trails
✔️ Wear light-colored clothing to spot ticks easily
✔️ Perform full-body tick checks after every outdoor outing
✔️ Use TiCK MiTT to remove loose ticks before they bite—on skin, clothes, gear, and pets

With a chemical-free, reusable tool like TiCK MiTT, you can make tick prevention part of your everyday routine—whether you’re hiking, working outdoors, or simply playing fetch in the yard.

Stay Safe. Stay Informed. Reclaim Tick Season.

Ticks may be expanding, but so is awareness. Babesiosis is a serious condition—but it’s also preventable. By staying alert and taking simple precautions, you can enjoy the outdoors without fear.

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