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Other Tickborne Diseases in Maine

About

Lyme disease is the most common tickborne disease in Maine, but it is not the only one. Ticks in Maine can also spread: 

  • Anaplasmosis (caused by the bacteria Anaplasma phagocytophilum)
  • Babesiosis (caused by the parasite Babesia microti)
  • Hard Tick Relapsing Fever (caused by the bacteria Borrelia miyamotoi)
  • Powassan virus disease (caused by Powassan virus)

These diseases spread through the bite of infected deer ticks (Ixodes scapularis).

Symptoms

Many tickborne diseases start with flu-like symptoms, including: 

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Muscle or joint pain
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Fatigue (feeling very tired)
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

More severe symtpoms can develop, especially if not treated early, including: 

  • Confusion
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Respiratory failure
  • Kidney failure
  • Neurologic problems
  • Bleeding problems
  • Anemia
  • Meningitis (swelling of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord)
  • Encephalitis (swelling of the brain)

Powassan virus disease can cause severe symptoms with long-lasting effects. About 1 in 10 people who experience severe symptoms of Powassan die. About half of survivors have long term health effects. These can include recurring headaches, loss of muscle strength, or memory problems.

Treatment

If untreated, more severe symptoms of these tickborne diseases can develop. See a health care provider if you become ill with these symptoms. Let them know you had a tick bite or spent time in areas where ticks commonly live. Be sure to mention any recent tick bites or outdoor activities to your health care provider. 

Anaplasmosis and Hard Tick Relapsing Fever are both treatable with antibiotics. Babesiosis is treatable with anti-parasitic drugs. There is not specific treatment for Powassan virus disease. Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms. People with severe disease may need hospitalization for support. 

Prevention

Visit the Ticks webpage to learn more about preventing tick bites. 

Data and Publications

Maine Tracking Network

The Maine Tracking Network shares data on tickborne diseases in Maine. It includes data from case reports and daily emergency department visits. The dashboard shows real-time data, maps, charts, and graphs for anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and Lyme disease. 

Surveillance Reports

Anaplasmosis

Babesiosis

Hard Tick Relapsing Fever and Powassan

Resources

Resources for Health Care Providers