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Babesiosis Surge in Maryland: Climate Change's Hidden Threat

5/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Babesiosis, a concerning tickborne illness that attacks red blood cells, is on the rise in Maryland. Transmitted from rodents to humans through ticks, this disease is prompting Dr. Nicole Baumgarth to call for enhanced blood screening to catch hidden infections. Once prevalent in the Midwest and Northeast, its spread in the Mid-Atlantic may be linked to climate change.

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Story summary

Babesiosis, a concerning tickborne illness that attacks red blood cells, is on the rise in Maryland. Transmitted from rodents to humans through ticks, this disease is prompting Dr. Nicole Baumgarth to call for enhanced blood screening to catch hidden infections. Once prevalent in the Midwest and Northeast, its spread in the Mid-Atlantic may be linked to climate change.