As summer approaches, West Virginia is seeing a rise in tickborne illnesses. While Lyme disease remains the most common, Anaplasmosis and Babesiosis are increasing significantly.

Anaplasmosis (Anaplasma phagocytophilum) is transmitted by blacklegged ticks -aka Deer Tick (Ixodes scapularis). Cases rose from 17 in 2023 to 29 in 2024. The disease begins with flu-like symptoms and can rapidly worsen if untreated. In 2024, complications included respiratory failure (2.9%), organ failure (6.9%), leukopenia (24.1%), and thrombocytopenia (44.8%); 62% of cases required hospitalization. It is spreading west from eastern WV.

Babesiosis (Babesia microti), also spread by blacklegged ticks, is emerging in WV. Four of the state’s eight total cases since 2017 occurred in 2024. It may mimic malaria on blood smears. Complications include heart attack (12.5%), ARDS (25%), thrombocytopenia (50%), and anemia (62.5%), with 75% of cases hospitalized.

1. Recognize and treat early to prevent severe disease.

2. Test for possible coinfections with Lyme or other tickborne diseases.

3. Monitor for transfusion/transplant-related cases:

-Both diseases are transmissible through blood or organs.

-Babesia is screened by blood centers; confirmatory results must be reported to the state.

-Suspected cases should be reported to the local health departments within one week.

4. Educate patients on prevention: