Tick Infestation Concerns Rise in Northeastern US

A surge in ticks in the northeastern U.S. has raised health concerns, with some ticks reaching the size of a small pencil dot. The tick infestation has been reported in areas such as Armonk, NY, near New York City. Students at Fordham University's Louis Calder Center are taking precautions to avoid tick bites, which can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

The northeastern United States is experiencing a surge in tick populations, with some ticks reaching the size of a small pencil dot. This infestation, particularly notable in areas like Armonk, NY, near New York City, has raised significant health concerns. Students at Fordham University's Louis Calder Center are taking precautions to avoid tick bites, which can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals (SXTP), a clinical-stage company advancing novel therapies for infectious diseases, is closely monitoring this situation. The company's focus on tick-borne illnesses, including babesiosis, aligns with the current health concerns. The recent increase in tick populations underscores the need for effective treatments and preventative measures.

In a recent development, 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals announced plans to submit a Minor Use Minor Species (MUMS) designation request to the FDA for tafenoquine to treat acute canine babesiosis in 2025 [1]. This submission is supported by three clinical efficacy studies that demonstrated tafenoquine's effectiveness and safety in treating babesiosis in dogs. Given the lack of FDA-approved oral treatments for canine babesiosis, this development is significant.

Moreover, 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals has expanded options for malaria prevention with the introduction of ARAKODA® (tafenoquine) in an 8-count bottle format [2]. This new format targets patients making shorter trips to malaria-endemic regions, particularly those traveling for one week or less. The drug, indicated for malaria prophylaxis in patients 18 and older, is notable as the only weekly prophylactic therapy that protects against all malaria stages.

The company's focus on babesiosis is also reflected in its ongoing clinical trials and recent survey results. A study conducted by Komodo Health revealed that babesiosis cases in the US are significantly higher than CDC estimates, with approximately 25,000 Americans seeking insurance reimbursement annually compared to CDC's 2020 estimate of 2,000 cases [3]. The survey also indicated that 17% of babesiosis patients experienced illness lasting six months or more, suggesting a larger market for effective treatments.

In conclusion, the rising tick infestation in the northeastern U.S. highlights the importance of 60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals' work in developing therapies for tick-borne illnesses. The company's focus on babesiosis and malaria prevention aligns with current health concerns, positioning it as a key player in the fight against these diseases.

References:
[1] https://www.stocktitan.net/news/SXTP/
[2] https://www.stocktitan.net/news/SXTP/
[3] https://www.stocktitan.net/news/SXTP/