Connecticut Doctors Warn 5 Tick Species Raise Illness Risk Ahead of Peak Season

6 articles · Updated · NBC Connecticut · May 16

At least five tick species are now present in Connecticut, expanding the pathogens they can carry and widening illness risk as warmer weather brings peak tick activity closer.
Statewide, about 160 of every 100,000 emergency visits involve tick-related concerns, Yale emergency physician Eleanor Reid said, with doctors urging residents to check for ticks after spending time outdoors.
Avon school officials warned families of a high likelihood of tick infestation, underscoring how concern has spread beyond parks and trails into daily community life.
Doctors said most ticks can be removed at home with tweezers and cleaning, but a bullseye rash, fever or embedded mouthparts should prompt a call to a physician.
Prevention remains the main defense: experts recommend light-colored clothing, tucking pants into socks and showering thoroughly after outdoor activity.

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