Ticks: A Year-Round Concern

Ticks can be active during any season, so it’s crucial to check for and remove them quickly—especially after spending time outdoors hiking, gardening, or just enjoying nature.

“People are outside more in summer, which is why we hear about more tick infections,” stated Sam Telford, an expert in infectious diseases at Tufts University. However, he emphasizes the need for caution throughout the year because “every season is tick season.”

Tick populations vary widely by region, but some Northeastern states, including Maine, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, are experiencing above-average numbers of American dog ticks this year, according to Telford. Additionally, New York has reported an increase in deer tick bites compared to last year, said Saravanan Thangamani, who studies tick-borne diseases at SUNY Upstate Medical University.

Understanding How Ticks Spread Disease

Ticks, much like mosquitoes, need blood to thrive. Unlike the quick bite of a mosquito, ticks are slower feeders and use hooked mouthparts to attach into the skin of deer, rabbits, dogs, and even humans.

There are many species of ticks worldwide, but not all transmit diseases that can harm humans. One of the main concerns is the blacklegged tick, also known as the deer tick, which can transmit Lyme disease. Once primarily found in New England and certain areas of the Midwest, these ticks are now spreading to a broader range.

However, not every tick bite results in illness. “If you remove a tick within 24 hours of attachment, you’re quite unlikely to become infected,” explained Telford.

How to Check for Ticks

Ticks generally reside low to the ground, often hiding in leaf litter or grassy patches.

It’s important to check your clothing for ticks, and conduct a full-body inspection—don’t forget areas like under the arms, behind the ears, and in the hair.

“If you’re outdoors for an extended period, consider doing quick tick checks every few hours,” advised Bobbi Pritt from the Mayo Clinic. “When you return indoors, take a shower. This will help wash off any unattached ticks and increase your chances of spotting any that might be clinging on.”

To safely remove a tick, use tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin as possible and pull upward. If tweezers are unavailable, you can use your fingernails or the edge of a credit card.

Preventing Tick Encounters

Minimizing exposure to ticks is the best strategy.

Ticks can be deterred by using bug sprays that contain DEET on exposed skin, as Telford recommends. Wearing long sleeves and pants can further protect against ticks, and treating clothing with permethrin—a chemical derived from chrysanthemums—can make ticks less likely to approach.

Protecting Pets from Ticks

Outdoor pets require attention as well. Medications can help prevent fleas and ticks from sticking to dogs’ skin, but it’s advisable to check their fur after they’ve been outside.

“Ticks tend to latch on where pets can’t easily groom themselves—like on the ears, around the muzzle, under collars, and between toes,” cautioned Thangamani.

Dogs and cats that roam outdoors can also bring ticks into the home.

“If pets bring ticks inside, those ticks can live in the house for months, waiting for their next meal, which could be another family member,” he explained.

What to Do After a Tick Bite

Once a tick has been removed, monitor the area around the bite. If you notice a rash or flu-like symptoms develop in the following days or weeks, it’s best to consult a doctor.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises against tick testing, as the results may not always be reliable.