Tick-Borne Illnesses on the Rise: Prevention and Safety Tips

Tick bites are on the rise, with emergency care visits peaking in May 2025, the highest since 2019.

Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne illness, affecting an estimated 470,000 people annually in the U.S.

Risks vary by region: the Northeast, mid-Atlantic, and Upper Midwest have the highest incidence of tick bites and Lyme disease.

The CDC has identified at least seven new tick-borne pathogens in the U.S. in the past 20 years, with reported cases more than doubling.

North:: High risk of Lyme disease, with deer ticks carrying *Borrelia burgdorferi*. Anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and relapsing fever are less common but still present.

South:: Ehrlichiosis, spotted fever rickettsioses, and alpha-gal syndrome are the primary concerns. Ticks tend to stay closer to the soil, potentially reducing human contact.

West:: Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever are among the diseases reported, though tick bites are less frequent.

Perform Daily Tick Checks: Especially after spending time outdoors, check yourself, your family, and your pets for ticks.

Remove Ticks Promptly: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure.

Stay on Maintained Trails: When hiking, stay in the middle of well-maintained trails to avoid contact with ticks in shrubs and foliage.

Treat Clothing and Skin: Treat outdoor clothing with permethrin and use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin.

Clean the bite area with soap and water.

Monitor for symptoms such as fever, rash, aches, and pains.

Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms develop, providing information about the bite, symptoms, and location where the tick was acquired.

Stay informed about local tick activity and disease prevalence using resources like the CDC and local health departments.

Take proactive measures to protect yourself and your family when spending time outdoors.

Know the symptoms of common tick-borne illnesses and seek prompt medical attention if you suspect an infection.

People who spend significant time outdoors, such as hikers, campers, and outdoor workers.

Residents of high-risk regions, including the Northeast, mid-Atlantic, and Upper Midwest.

Pet owners, as pets can carry ticks into the home.

Q: What should I do if I find a tick on me?

Q: When should I seek medical care after a tick bite?

Q: How can I protect my pets from ticks?

Tick-borne diseases are a growing concern, but awareness and prevention can significantly reduce your risk.

Regional risks vary, so it's important to know which diseases are prevalent in your area.

Prompt tick removal and monitoring for symptoms are crucial for managing potential infections.