Michigan Tick Reports Near 1,000 as Lone Star Species Raises Red Meat Allergy Risk
Updated
Updated · WXYZ 7 Action News Detroit · Jun 30
Michigan Tick Reports Near 1,000 as Lone Star Species Raises Red Meat Allergy Risk
2 articles · Updated · WXYZ 7 Action News Detroit · Jun 30
Summary
Nearly 1,000 citizen-submitted tick photos have been identified in Michigan so far this season, up from about 700 at the same point last year, state epidemiologist Rachel Burkholder said.
Burkholder said ticks thrive in shady, moist woods and tall grass, and urged people to check armpits, ears, groin areas, children and pets after time outdoors.
Black-legged ticks that carry Lyme disease are found across Michigan but are concentrated in the Upper Peninsula and along the Lake Michigan coast, while Lone Star ticks have recently become established in Berrien County.
The Lone Star tick can trigger alpha-gal syndrome — a red meat allergy — though Burkholder said ticks in Michigan do not currently carry Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Health officials recommend EPA-approved insect repellent, skin-covering clothing and removing ticks with tweezers rather than fire or chemicals, which can increase disease transmission risk.