Health Officials Urge Tick Precautions as Summer Peaks
Health authorities in Hunterdon County are urging locals to be mindful of tick safety during the summer heat.
The county’s health department highlights that small ticks, especially deer ticks, are particularly active at this time and will continue to be throughout mid-July.
In 2020, New Jersey saw 3,110 tick-borne disease cases. That number surged to 7,200 by 2024, as reported by the New Jersey Department of Health.
These tiny parasites can carry serious illnesses like Lyme disease and babesiosis.
Deputy Director Shaun C. Van Doren, who acts as the liaison to the Health Department, emphasized the urgency, saying, “We’re now in the peak season for tick activity, especially for deer ticks, which can be really small and easily overlooked. It’s crucial everyone takes simple steps to protect themselves while outdoors. Prevention is the best way to steer clear of tick-borne diseases.”
Officials also pointed out that other tick species are active right now.
Longhorned ticks are currently in their juvenile phase and will mature later in the summer. While their primary impact is on animals, there may be potential risks for humans, too.
Lone Star ticks, known to transmit ehrlichiosis and linked to a red meat allergy called alpha-gal syndrome, are mostly found in southern New Jersey and along the Shore. They’re not frequent in Hunterdon County, but some might still be around.
To help prevent tick bites, the Health Department advises several precautions:
- Use EPA-registered insect repellent with DEET
- Check for ticks regularly after outdoor activities
- Shower shortly after returning indoors
- Remove any attached ticks promptly using the right methods
For more details on identifying ticks and ways to prevent bites, residents can reach out to the Hunterdon County Health Department at 908-788-1351 or visit www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/health.
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For questions about this post, you can direct them to Linda O’Brien at lobrien@njadvancemedia.com.
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