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Ticks are spreading rapidly into new parts of the United States, carrying dangerous diseases like Lyme, anaplasmosis, and Powassan virus. Climate change, urbanization, and wildlife movement are fueling this expansion, putting more people at risk.
Key Takeaways
🔹 Ticks are moving into new areas, including regions previously considered low-risk.
🔹 Lyme disease remains the biggest threat, but other illnesses like babesiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever are rising.
🔹 Warmer winters and longer seasons allow ticks to survive and thrive in new locations.
🔹 Prevention is critical—use repellents, check for ticks, and protect pets.
Where Are Ticks Spreading?
1. Northeast & Midwest
Lyme disease hotspots expanding into Canada and the upper Midwest.
Blacklegged (deer) ticks now found in new counties.
2. Southeast & Gulf Coast
Lone Star ticks (linked to alpha-gal syndrome, a red meat allergy) spreading northward.
Increased cases of ehrlichiosis and tularemia.
3. Western U.S.
Rocky Mountain wood ticks moving into higher elevations.
First reports of Lyme disease-carrying ticks in California.
4. Urban & Suburban Areas
Ticks are no longer just in forests—parks, backyards, and green spaces are now risk zones.
Diseases Carried by Ticks
Disease Primary Tick Carrier Symptoms
Lyme disease Blacklegged tick Fever, fatigue, bullseye rash, joint pain
Anaplasmosis Blacklegged tick Flu-like symptoms, severe if untreated
Babesiosis Blacklegged tick Malaria-like illness (fever, chills, anemia)
Powassan virus Blacklegged tick Rare but severe (neurological damage, death in some cases)
Alpha-gal syndrome Lone Star tick Allergic reaction to red meat (delayed hives, anaphylaxis)
Rocky Mountain spotted fever American dog tick Rash, fever, organ failure if untreated
How to Protect Yourself
✔️ Before Going Outdoors
Use EPA-approved repellents (DEET, picaridin, or permethrin-treated clothing).
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