Over the next few days to weeks, monitor for:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- A spreading rash
- Signs of an allergic reaction after eating red meat, such as hives, stomach pain, or difficulty breathing (which may indicate the rare condition known as alpha-gal syndrome).
If any of these symptoms develop, contact a healthcare provider promptly.
What Diseases Can Lone Star Ticks Spread?
Unlike some other ticks, lone star ticks are not known to transmit Lyme disease. However, they can transmit or are associated with several other illnesses, including:
- Ehrlichiosis
- Southern tick-associated rash illness
- Tularemia
- Alpha-gal syndrome
- Less commonly, certain viral illnesses in areas where they occur.
How to Prevent Future Bites
- Stay on cleared trails instead of walking through tall grass.
- Wear long sleeves and long pants.
- Use an insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin or permethrin-treated clothing.
- Check yourself, children, and pets thoroughly after spending time outdoors.
Bottom Line
Most lone star tick bites do not lead to disease, and finding one doesn't mean you'll become ill. The best approach is to remove an attached tick promptly, clean the bite, and watch for symptoms over the following weeks. If you develop fever, a rash, flu-like symptoms, or an unusual allergic reaction after eating red meat, seek medical evaluation.