From the Guidelines
Maryland's common infections include Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, respiratory infections like influenza and COVID-19, gastrointestinal infections such as norovirus and salmonellosis, and sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea. The etiologies of these infections vary, with Lyme disease being caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, typically transmitted through the bite of an infected Ixodes tick 1. According to the clinical practice guidelines by the Infectious Diseases Society of America, the prevalence of B. burgdorferi in nymphal I. scapularis ticks in areas of endemicity in the Northeastern and upper Midwestern United States, including Maryland, ranges between 20% and 40% 1. Key factors associated with the risk of developing Lyme disease after a tick bite include the duration of tick attachment, with the risk increasing significantly after 36 hours of attachment, and the degree of tick engorgement 1. Other infections prevalent in Maryland, such as respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, are caused by a variety of pathogens including viruses, bacteria, and parasites. For example, influenza is caused by influenza viruses A and B, while norovirus is a common cause of gastrointestinal infections 1. Sexually transmitted infections, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, are caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, respectively. Understanding the etiologies of these infections is crucial for effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, and for reducing morbidity, mortality, and improving quality of life in Maryland. Some of the measures to prevent these infections include using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and practicing safe sex, as well as getting vaccinated against diseases like influenza and COVID-19 1. It is also important to note that the risk of certain infections can vary by season, with tick-borne diseases increasing in spring through fall, and gastrointestinal infections often rising during summer 1. Overall, being aware of the common infections and their etiologies in Maryland can help individuals take steps to protect themselves and their communities from these diseases.
From the Research
Common Infections in Maryland
- Influenza: a significant public health burden in Maryland, with more than 36,000 Americans dying and 200,000 hospitalized every year due to influenza 2
- Lyme disease: a common infection in Maryland, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which can be treated with antibiotics such as doxycycline or ceftriaxone 3, 4
Etiologies of Infections in Maryland
- Influenza: the etiology of influenza in Maryland is attributed to the influenza virus, which can be prevented through vaccination 2, 5, 6
- Lyme disease: the etiology of Lyme disease in Maryland is attributed to the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick 3, 4
Prevention and Treatment of Infections in Maryland
- Influenza: vaccination is the most effective preventive strategy for influenza, and annual vaccination is recommended for all individuals over 6 months of age 2, 5, 6
- Lyme disease: treatment of Lyme disease typically involves antibiotics such as doxycycline or ceftriaxone, and prevention measures include avoiding tick bites and using insect repellents 3, 4