Ticks are spreading beyond their traditional habitats due to milder winters, leading to an increase in tick-borne illnesses across the U.S. Experts warn that as temperatures rise, ticks are becoming more active and expanding into new regions, potentially bringing diseases like Lyme disease, alpha-gal syndrome, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Public vigilance is crucial as ticks can now be found in areas previously unaffected.
According to Bob Hottel, an entomologist with Orkin, warmer climates are now more hospitable for ticks, allowing them to remain active longer and travel further. This expansion has led to the emergence of tick-borne illnesses in regions that were once considered safe. Experts at Binghamton University’s Tick-borne Disease Center have reported that these illnesses are now appearing in other parts of the country, highlighting the need for increased awareness and preventive measures.
Deer ticks, which are responsible for transmitting Lyme disease, are now more active due to the extended warm seasons, according to Yetrib Hathout, a professor at Binghamton University. Additionally, the number of concerning tick species has increased from one to five in the last 15 years, according to Ohio State University specialists. These ticks, such as the lone star tick and American dog tick, carry diseases like alpha-gal syndrome and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which pose significant health risks.
Public health experts emphasize the importance of precautionary measures, such as wearing long clothing, using tick repellents, and checking for ticks after outdoor activities. The expansion of human developments into wildlife habitats also plays a role in the increased spread of ticks, as they can now more easily find human hosts. Understanding the specific species of ticks and the diseases they carry is essential for preventing serious tick-borne illnesses.