As tick season intensifies, experts are warning about an alarming rise in tickborne illnesses across the United States. Warmer temperatures and changing environments are creating the perfect conditions for ticks to thrive and spread into new regions. From Lyme disease to anaplasmosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, the risk of encountering dangerous pathogens has grown significantly.
A major reason for this surge is climate change, which has extended the range of ticks into areas that were once too cold for them to survive. Additionally, suburban and urban development has made many environments more hospitable for whitetail deer, a key host for blacklegged ticks. While deer do not infect ticks, they help them reproduce and expand into new areas. At the same time, more people and their pets are venturing into natural landscapes, increasing the likelihood of tick exposure.
Understanding your local risk is the first step in protection. Tick species and the diseases they carry vary by region. For example, Lyme disease is common in the Northeast and Upper Midwest, while states like South Carolina report more cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever. In some areas, a single bite can even transmit multiple diseases. Checking current tick surveillance maps can help you prepare before heading outdoors.
Using tick repellent is essential. Products containing 20%–30% DEET, 20% picaridin, or 30% oil of lemon eucalyptus (not the essential oil version) offer the best protection. It’s also important to treat your clothing and gear with permethrin, a powerful insecticide that kills ticks on contact and lasts through several washes.
After spending time outdoors, there are key steps you should take immediately. Remove your clothes and tumble them in a hot dryer for 10 minutes to kill any lingering ticks. Then perform a full-body tick check, paying special attention to hidden areas like behind the knees, underarms, and around the hairline. Taking a shower soon after being outside can also help remove ticks before they bite. Don’t forget to check pets, as they can carry ticks into your home.
If you find a tick, remove it using fine-tipped tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight out. Avoid twisting, which can cause the tick to break apart. If any parts remain embedded, clean the area and let your skin heal naturally. It’s wise to save the tick in a sealed bag for potential testing, especially if symptoms appear.
Stay alert for signs of illness such as rashes, fever, fatigue, or muscle aches. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics can prevent complications and ensure full recovery. As tick season peaks, taking the right precautions can make all the difference in staying safe outdoors
