Pennsylvania Tick-Borne Illnesses Jump to 18,747 Cases as 30 Inches of Snow May Fuel Peak Season
Updated
Updated · The Philadelphia Inquirer · Jun 5
Pennsylvania Tick-Borne Illnesses Jump to 18,747 Cases as 30 Inches of Snow May Fuel Peak Season
1 articles · Updated · The Philadelphia Inquirer · Jun 5
Summary
18,747 tick-borne illness cases were reported in Pennsylvania last year, up from 2,900 in 2021, as experts warn June and July could bring one of the region’s worst tick seasons in years.
30 inches of lingering winter snow may have helped ticks survive by insulating them under leaf litter, while rising deer populations, suburban development and sustained outdoor activity are increasing human exposure.
4,240 cases have already been logged this year, and the CDC said late-April emergency-room visits for tick bites were unusually high in most U.S. regions for this time of year.
About 600 alpha-gal syndrome cases have come to Pennsylvania’s attention in the past two years under voluntary reporting, prompting a new state tracking effort as lone star ticks and other species spread.
At least 25 tick species are thought to exist in Pennsylvania, and health experts are urging people to use repellents, treat clothing, avoid dense vegetation and check pets and themselves regularly.