CDC Reports Highest Tick-Bite ER Visits Since 2017 as Warming Expands Ticks
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Jul 2
CDC Reports Highest Tick-Bite ER Visits Since 2017 as Warming Expands Ticks
3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Jul 2
Summary
Emergency-room visits for tick bites have reached their highest rate since 2017 across most of the U.S., and health officials expect this summer’s tick season to be worse than usual.
Warmer temperatures are pushing ticks into new areas, Wisconsin epidemiologist Rebecca Osborn said, driving increases in tick-borne diseases despite years of prevention campaigns.
The spread includes lone star ticks, which can trigger alpha-gal red-meat allergy, and concern over Powassan virus, which can cause memory loss, speech difficulty and seizures.
CDC guidance says removing a tick within 24 hours can help prevent Lyme disease; officials urge repellents, long clothing, prompt removal and full-body checks for additional ticks.