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Tick Bites Surge: ER Visits Hit Record Highs
6 May
Summary
- Emergency room visits for tick bites are at their highest for this time of year since 2017.
- The Northeast and Midwest regions report the highest rates of tick bite-related emergency visits.
- Mild winters and increased wildlife populations contribute to favorable tick conditions this year.
Emergency room visits for tick bites have surged to their highest levels for this time of year since 2017 in nearly all U.S. regions, prompting a national health warning.
The Northeast and Midwest are experiencing the most significant increases in emergency department visits related to tick bites. This rise is attributed to a combination of mild winters, wetter weather, and a booming population of ticks and their hosts, such as white-footed mice.
Climate trends are extending the period ticks remain active, increasing the chances of human exposure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises using repellents, treating clothing with permethrin, and promptly removing any attached ticks to prevent illnesses like Lyme disease and alpha-gal syndrome. Early detection and medical care for symptoms like fever or rash are also recommended.
