Tick Season Warning

Amna Nawaz reports that with summer here, ticks are particularly active. They’ve been a long-standing problem in some regions, but now they’re creeping into new areas and introducing greater risks.

William Brangham shares that ticks have been a significant concern over the years, primarily due to their association with Lyme disease. Approximately half a million people in the U.S. contract Lyme each year, which can lead to severe, often lifelong health issues. Recently, however, ticks are associated with other diseases, including Alpha-gal syndrome, a condition that can trigger dangerous allergies to red meat and dairy products.

To delve deeper into these issues, Brangham speaks with Holly Gaff, a mathematical ecologist at Old Dominion University who specializes in tick research. He notes that emergency room visits for tick bites are unusually high this year, perhaps at levels not seen in a decade, and asks Gaff why the tick season has started off so energetically.

Gaff responds, acknowledging the complexity of tick populations. She mentions that this year seems to be particularly bad, and she’s eager to see how the rest of the season unfolds. A colder winter, contrary to expectation, may have reduced the food supply for ticks, leading them to seek out alternative hosts—like humans.

Brangham humorously remarks on the concept of “hangry” ticks, which adds a light touch to the conversation about these pests.

Curious about whether certain regions are more susceptible to this surge of ticks, Brangham asks Gaff for insights. Gaff explains that the lone star tick often feeds on white-tailed deer, and as deer populations grow, so do the ticks. Additionally, human expansion into suburban and exurban areas contributes to this issue, creating an inviting environment for ticks.

Brangham then inquires if Lyme disease remains a primary health concern. Gaff clarifies that while Lyme disease is significant and shouldn’t be overlooked, the emergence of Alpha-gal syndrome is noteworthy. Both Lyme disease and Alpha-gal syndrome are spreading, each affecting different geographical areas, leading to a confusing but concerning situation with multiple tick-borne diseases on the rise.

Brangham seeks clarity on Alpha-gal syndrome, asking if it indeed causes allergies to meat and dairy. Gaff confirms this, explaining how the saliva from lone star ticks carries a carbohydrate that can trigger a delayed allergic reaction, which varies among individuals.

Looking to help those unfamiliar with prevention, Brangham asks Gaff for tips on protecting against ticks. Gaff emphasizes awareness, suggesting people should be cautious in areas where white-tailed deer are present. Staying on paths while hiking and checking oneself, children, and pets for ticks are crucial. She recommends using DEET for deterrence and permethrin on shoes for added protection.

Brangham points out the misinformation surrounding tick removal techniques, acknowledging that he’s heard odd methods like using petroleum jelly and nail polish remover. He asks Gaff for the best safe method to remove ticks. She advises using tweezers, pulling straight out without twisting, and emphasizes the importance of acting quickly to avoid prolonged exposure to potential pathogens.

In conclusion, Brangham thanks Holly Gaff for her valuable insights on ticks and the associated risks.