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Tick Bites Surge to Highest Levels Since 2017—Here’s What You Need to Know

The rush to emergency rooms for tick bites has surged to its highest level in years, with 476,000 Americans diagnosed annually with Lyme disease—the most common tick-borne illness in the U.S. The sharpest increases are in the Northeast and Midwest, where warming temperatures have created ideal conditions for ticks to thrive.

Why the Sudden Spike?

Lyme disease is transmitted by blacklegged ticks (also called deer ticks), which often go unnoticed due to their tiny size and painless bite. Many people only realize they’ve been bitten when symptoms appear, making early detection difficult.

Climate change plays a major role—milder winters allow ticks to survive longer and expand into new regions. While cases are concentrated in 14 states, including Connecticut, New York, and Minnesota, infection rates vary dramatically:

• Some areas report less than 1% of ticks carrying the bacteria.
• Others see up to 50% infection rates.

How to Protect Yourself

Prevention Is Simple

After outdoor activities, thoroughly inspect clothing and gear—shoes, backpacks, and outer layers are common hiding spots. Showering within two hours can wash away unattached ticks, while a full-body check ensures no hitchhikers remain.

Where to Look

Ticks favor warm, dark, and moist areas, so pay close attention to:

• Hairline, behind ears, underarms
• Groin, behind knees, between toes
• Around the belly button

What to Do If Bitten

Remove attached ticks immediately with tweezers, pulling straight out. Keep the bite clean and monitor for symptoms—rash, fever, or joint pain—which may appear within weeks.

Seek medical attention promptly if any signs develop. While tick populations grow, regular checks and quick action can significantly reduce your risk of Lyme disease.