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 (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.
Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department
1500 Chapline Street, Room 106
Wheeling, WV 26003
(Get Directions)
Howard Gamble, MPH, LHA
Administration
(304) 234-3682
(304) 830-0420
[email protected]
Elizabeth Fowler, RN, BSN
Nursing Director
(304) 234-3682
[email protected]
Lock Johnson, RS
Chief Inspector-Environmental
(304) 234-3682
[email protected]
Savannah Lowe, MS, RD, LD
Nutrition Director
(304) 234-3888
[email protected]
Wayland Harris, EMT-P
Threat Preparedness Director
(304) 234-3682
[email protected]
William C Mercer, MD
Project HOPE Program
(304) 234-3682
[email protected]
Posted 06/15/25
Flooding & Tetanus Vaccinations The health department will begin to offer Free Tdap (tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis) vaccinations starting this Monday, June 16, 2025. The health department will be set up along with the Ohio County EMA in the Riesbeck's parking lot in the Elm Grove Crossing. Clinics will begain around 8:30am. Walk in Tdap vaccinations will be offered at the health department this week as well (9am-4pm) starting Monday June 16th....
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