Wisconsin has logged 33 lone star tick reports so far in 2026, already more than five times the six identified in all of 2025 with months left in tick season.
State health officials said higher public submissions may explain part of the jump, but early, heavy tick activity and warming-driven northward spread suggest the species is having a bigger impact.
Officials do not yet see evidence of an established Wisconsin population—finds are scattered statewide and winter cold still limits survival—but the state is considering expanding tick-drag surveillance.
alpha-gal syndrome can trigger reactions to red meat and sometimes dairy after a single bite; the CDC estimates up to 450,000 Americans may have it, and Wisconsin doctors are already diagnosing cases.
Health officials also said deer ticks may occasionally carry alpha-gal, widening concern in a Midwest state where lone star ticks remain uncommon but tick exposure is widespread.