Maine Reports Record Highs in Tick-Borne Diseases for 2025

Reports indicate that in 2025, Maine has experienced an unprecedented surge in cases of tick-borne diseases, with figures surpassing those of previous years. As of December 23, the state recorded a total of 3,611 cases of Lyme disease, an increase from 3,218 cases in 2024. Similarly, the number of reported cases of anaplasmosis climbed to 1,598, up from 1,284 the previous year. Cases of babesiosis also rose, with 349 reports compared to 309 in 2024. This trend highlights the ongoing expansion of tick populations in Maine and underscores growing public health concerns.

The uptick in these diseases, which are transmitted through the bites of infected ticks, has serious implications for residents. Some individuals have faced chronic health challenges as a result of these infections, and there have even been fatalities attributed to tick-borne illnesses in recent years. The rise in Lyme disease cases has been particularly concentrated in Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, and Waldo counties, where anaplasmosis rates are also reportedly higher.

Emerging Trends and Community Impact

Research conducted by the University of Maine has identified the state’s midcoast as a new epicenter for tick-borne diseases, as ticks spread from southern regions. The increasing prevalence of anaplasmosis and babesiosis has been noted by residents in communities such as Islesboro. In October, local residents and the island’s nurse practitioner expressed concerns to the Bangor Daily News (BDN), indicating that these lesser-known diseases are becoming more common. The island recorded its first known case of babesiosis this year, reflecting a broader trend where reports of such diseases have doubled since 2023.

The rise in tick populations can be attributed to several environmental factors. Warmer and wetter winters have created favorable conditions for ticks to survive, stay active for longer periods, and reproduce more frequently. According to Griffin Dill, the tick lab coordinator at the University of Maine, the coastal regions experience milder winters and provide ample habitat for wildlife that serve as hosts for ticks. Dense populations of deer confined to limited areas, combined with increased outdoor activities among residents, further exacerbate the situation.

As Maine grapples with this public health challenge, the focus remains on understanding the dynamics of tick-borne diseases and implementing measures to mitigate their spread. The state’s escalating case numbers reflect not only a growing health crisis but also the need for heightened awareness and proactive strategies among residents and health officials alike.