The Emerging Tick-Borne Threat in the Mid-Atlantic and How Craghoppers Insect Shield® Gear Can Help

Babesiosis: The Emerging Tick-Borne Threat in the Mid-Atlantic and How Craghoppers Insect Shield® Gear Can Help

As outdoor enthusiasts gear up for the warmer months, a new health concern is making its presence known in the Mid-Atlantic region: babesiosis. This malaria-like disease, transmitted by black-legged ticks (Ixodes scapularis), has historically been confined to the Northeast and Upper Midwest. However, recent studies indicate its spread into Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, raising alarms among public health officials and outdoor adventurers alike.

Understanding Babesiosis

Babesiosis is caused by the Babesia parasite, which infects red blood cells. Symptoms can range from mild flu-like signs to severe illness, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. In some cases, the disease can be life-threatening if not promptly diagnosed and treated. The same ticks that transmit Lyme disease are responsible for spreading babesiosis, and co-infections are not uncommon.

The Role of Climate Change

The expansion of babesiosis into new regions is attributed to factors such as warmer winters, increased rainfall, and expanded tick habitats—all consequences of climate change. These environmental shifts have allowed ticks and the rodents that carry the Babesia parasite to thrive in areas previously unaffected.

Protecting Yourself with Craghoppers Insect Shield® Gear

Preventing tick bites is the most effective way to avoid babesiosis. Craghoppers offers a range of Insect Shield® apparel designed to repel ticks and other insects, providing an added layer of protection for outdoor activities.

Top Recommended Products:

Insect Shield® Adventure Pro Socks
These socks are treated with permethrin to repel ticks, mosquitoes, and other insects, making them ideal for hiking and camping.

Men's and Women's Insect Shield® Adventure Shirts
Lightweight and breathable, these shirts offer full coverage and insect protection without compromising comfort.

Women's Insect Shield® Pro Leggings
Designed for mobility and protection, these leggings are perfect for trail runs or forest walks.

Men's Insect Shield® Pant Collection
This collection includes pants that combine style with functionality, offering insect protection for various outdoor pursuits.

Ultimate Insect Shield® Hat
With a wide brim and built-in insect repellent, this hat shields your face and neck from sun and ticks alike.

Stay Vigilant

While enjoying the great outdoors, it's crucial to remain vigilant against tick-borne diseases like babesiosis. In addition to wearing protective clothing, perform regular tick checks, use EPA-approved insect repellents, and stay informed about local tick activity.

For more information on babesiosis and its spread in the Mid-Atlantic, refer to the original article on Grist:

Equip yourself with Craghoppers Insect Shield® gear and take proactive steps to enjoy nature safely.

Sources

Grist: A malaria-like disease spread by ticks is moving into Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia
  [https://grist.org/health/babesiosis-mid-atlantic-delaware-maryland-virginia-tick-borne-disease-lyme-research](https://grist.org/health/babesiosis-mid-atlantic-delaware-maryland-virginia-tick-borne-disease-lyme-research)

Daily Climate: Tick-borne disease once rare in the South now spreading through Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia
  [https://www.dailyclimate.org/tick-borne-disease-once-rare-in-the-south-now-spreading-through-delaware-maryland-and-virginia-2671935733.html](https://www.dailyclimate.org/tick-borne-disease-once-rare-in-the-south-now-spreading-through-delaware-maryland-and-virginia-2671935733.html)

CDC: Babesiosis – General Information
  [https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/babesiosis/index.html](https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/babesiosis/index.html)

CDC: Ticks and Tickborne Diseases of the United States
  [https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/index.html](https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/index.html)