A newly published study in the Journal of Medical Entomology highlights the growing presence of babesiosis in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States.

Researchers documented human cases and detected Babesia microti in local tick populations.

Historically concentrated in the Northeast and Upper Midwest, babesiosis is now emerging in areas where it was previously rare.

Key findings indicate that locally acquired babesiosis cases have been reported for the first time in Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

Additionally, Babesia microti was detected in ticks collected from Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and D.C., marking a concerning expansion of the disease. The study also presents Ixodes keiransi as a potential vector—a first in babesiosis research.

Click here to read the press release from the Entomological Society of America