A rare bacterium capable of causing Lyme disease, Borrelia mayonii, has been identified in New York for the first time, marking a significant geographic expansion of the pathogen. Previously confined to Minnesota and Wisconsin, the species was detected in a Herkimer County resident and local tick populations, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
How is Borrelia mayonii different from traditional Lyme disease?
While Borrelia mayonii causes symptoms nearly identical to the more common Borrelia burgdorferi—including fever, rash, and joint pain—it is classified as a distinct, emerging species. Health officials note that both bacteria are transmitted by the blacklegged tick, or Ixodes scapularis. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health, B. mayonii was first identified as a human pathogen in Minnesota in 2013. The clinical presentation remains similar to standard Lyme disease, but its emergence in new regions complicates diagnostic efforts for healthcare providers who may be less familiar with this specific strain.
The blacklegged tick is a versatile carrier. Beyond Lyme disease and B. mayonii, it is known to transmit anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and the Powassan virus, according to CDC data.
Where was the pathogen detected in New York?
The detection occurred in Herkimer County, where a resident tested positive for both B. mayonii and anaplasmosis. Following this diagnosis, the New York State Department of Health conducted an environmental survey of the patient’s property. CDC researchers confirmed that 0.7% of nymphs and 3.9% of adult ticks collected on the property tested positive for the bacterium. Statewide, the prevalence remains low, with only 0.2% of tested nymphs and 1% of adult ticks carrying the pathogen, according to federal surveillance records.
Why is surveillance of tick-borne diseases increasing?
The blacklegged tick has expanded its range significantly, now covering more than half of the United States, stretching from Texas to the Northeast and as far north as North Dakota, according to the CDC. This widespread distribution has prompted public health agencies to prioritize the monitoring of emerging pathogens. Because B. mayonii is a relatively new discovery, experts emphasize that continued surveillance is critical to understanding how quickly these bacteria move across state lines and how they impact human health in newly affected populations.
Pro Tips for Tick Prevention
- Perform daily checks: Always inspect your body and clothing for ticks after spending time in wooded or grassy areas.
- Use EPA-approved repellents: Products containing DEET or permethrin are effective at deterring tick attachment.
- Landscape management: Keep grass mowed short and clear brush from around your home to reduce tick habitats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can B. mayonii be treated with standard Lyme disease antibiotics?
Yes, symptoms of B. mayonii mimic those of B. burgdorferi, and medical professionals typically utilize standard antibiotic protocols used for traditional Lyme disease, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Is B. mayonii more dangerous than common Lyme disease?
There is no current evidence suggesting B. mayonii is more severe. Both species can cause fever, rashes, and long-term joint or nervous system complications if left untreated.
Are all blacklegged ticks infected with B. mayonii?
No. The percentage of ticks carrying this specific bacterium remains very low, even in areas where it has been detected, according to the CDC.
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