If you’ve spent any time outdoors this year—gardening, hiking, or just walking the dog—you’ve probably noticed something unsettling: ticks are everywhere. And it’s not just your imagination. Experts are calling 2025 one of the worst tick seasons in recent memory, with populations exploding across the U.S., including right here in the DMV.
🌀 Why the Surge?
A “perfect storm” of environmental factors has created ideal conditions for ticks to thrive. Milder winters, longer warm seasons, rainy springs, and increased wildlife populations have allowed ticks to expand their range and now remain active year-round. Here in the DMV, deer ticks are especially prevalent—and they’re not just annoying. They carry diseases that can be life-altering—or even deadly.
⚠️ The Hidden Dangers: Not Just Lyme Disease
While most people have heard of Lyme disease, many aren’t aware of the growing range of serious tick-borne infections in our region. While Lyme disease remains the most well-known tick-borne illness, it’s far from the only threat. In 2025, local health officials are warning about a rise in babesiosis, a malaria-like parasitic infection that’s now spreading into Maryland and Virginia. Other serious illnesses include:
Anaplasmosis – causes fever, chills, and muscle aches. Maryland and Virginia have already seen a rise in cases this year.
Ehrlichiosis – can lead to severe flu-like symptoms: high fever, chills, muscle aches, and sometimes confusion or rash. If untreated, they can become life-threatening—especially for older adults or those with weakened immune systems.
Powassan virus – a rare but potentially fatal neurological disease. Unlike Lyme, Powassan can be transmitted within minutes of a tick bite—making early detection crucial.
❗ Important: Many of these diseases do not cause a rash and their symptoms mimic the flu, making them easy to miss or difficult to diagnose. If untreated, they may lead to long-term complications or even death.
🏥 How PHW Specialty Clinic Can Help
At PHW Specialty Clinic, we take tick-borne illnesses seriously—and we have the tools and expertise to help patients catch and treat them early.
Rapid Diagnostic Testing: We offer advanced testing for Lyme, babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and more—because early detection is everything.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Whether you need antibiotics, antiparasitic medications, or follow-up care, our team tailors treatment to your unique needs.
Preventive Consultations: Concerned about a recent tick bite? We provide same-day evaluations and guidance on next steps.
Education & Awareness: Our provider is passionate about empowering patients with the knowledge to protect themselves and their families.
❗ Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Tick-borne illnesses are on the rise, but with the right care, they’re manageable and often preventable. If you’ve been bitten, are experiencing symptoms, or just want peace of mind, PHW Specialty Clinic is here for you. Trusted by patients across the Mid-Atlantic for specialty care and diagnostics.
📍 Serving patients across the DMV and beyond
📞 Same-day appointments available
📞 Call or book online at hellophw.com