With tick bites surging across the United States, medical professionals warn about the dangers of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Around 31 million people get tick bites each year, and this summer’s heat and humidity have made ticks more active than usual.
The CDC reports record numbers of tick bite cases in the Northeast, with emergency room visits reaching their highest point since 2017. The Fordham Tick Index shows extremely high risk levels in parts of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
Lyme disease, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria, can lead to serious health issues like Bell’s palsy, brain inflammation, and nerve damage. Since there is no vaccine, early detection and treatment are critical.
A bull’s-eye rash is a common sign, but many don’t notice it because ticks inject anesthetic saliva. Symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle pain can appear days or weeks later.
Removing ticks quickly reduces infection risk. Ticks can also spread other diseases, including anaplasmosis and Powassan virus, which can infect people within minutes.
Some ticks, like the lone star tick, may cause allergies to red meat, while others carry infections that can cause severe health problems.
To protect yourself, experts advise staying out of tall grass, covering up with long clothing, and using insect repellents.
