Ticks are spreading rapidly into new parts of the United States, carrying dangerous diseases like Lyme, anaplasmosis, and Powassan virus. Climate change, urbanization, and wildlife movement are fueling this expansion, putting more people at risk.
Key Takeaways
🔹 Ticks are moving into new areas, including regions previously considered low-risk.
🔹 Lyme disease remains the biggest threat, but other illnesses like babesiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever are rising.
🔹 Warmer winters and longer seasons allow ticks to survive and thrive in new locations.
🔹 Prevention is critical—use repellents, check for ticks, and protect pets.
Where Are Ticks Spreading?
1. Northeast & Midwest
Lyme disease hotspots expanding into Canada and the upper Midwest.
Blacklegged (deer) ticks now found in new counties.
2. Southeast & Gulf Coast
Lone Star ticks (linked to alpha-gal syndrome, a red meat allergy) spreading northward.
Increased cases of ehrlichiosis and tularemia.
3. Western U.S.
