Customer Login“It’s becoming a year-round, check-yourself-for-ticks situation.” – Dr. Toni Lyn Morelli from the Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center
As temperatures rise in the Northeast, experts are warning of an increase in tick populations and tick-borne illnesses. The warming climate has resulted in shorter and milder winters, allowing ticks to remain active for longer periods of time. This year, tick samples have been arriving at labs in larger numbers than in past winters. – WBUR
The areas that are especially at risk for tick bites and Lyme disease include Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, up into Maine.
Dr. Goudarz Molaei, head of the Entomology Department, tested a female adult deer tick that was so swollen it was almost unrecognizable. He said it was a tick of concern, having likely fed for several days and increasing the risk of transmitting an infection. From December to late February, Molaei’s lab received 275 tick samples, highlighting the severity of the issue.
“Without that limiting factor of winter, we’re going to see more of those pop up. And we’re going to see more of them establish in the Northeast as well…” – Linske (From Connecticut Public Radio)
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that national Lyme disease rates have been steadily increasing, with New England experiencing the biggest increase in cases and overall infections. Meanwhile, Northeast Regional Climate Center data show that average regional temperatures from November to January were 1 to 7 degrees higher than normal for half of the last decade.
Dr. Toni Lyn Morelli with the Northeast Climate Adaptation Science Center stated that tick management is being researched, but people in the Northeast must learn to coexist with ticks year-round. The CDC advises avoiding brushy, wooded areas, tall grass, and leaf litter, as well as performing a full body check of people and pets afterward.
From Jeff Kaufman
Chantal Foster, an avid hiker, has experienced ticks outdoors and checks herself and her dog after hikes. While her dog was previously diagnosed with Lyme disease, Foster continues to enjoy outdoor activities, saying that being mindful and aware can help prevent tick bites.
CHANTAL FOSTER: If you’re just paying attention to what you’re doing, you should be OK. That’s not to say that it can’t happen, but I’m not going to not go outside. – NPR
As the climate continues to warm, tick populations could increase, leading to a greater risk of tick-borne illnesses. It is important to take precautions and be vigilant in tick-prone areas to protect yourself and your pets.
Tick Prevention from A1 Exterminators
As the threat of ticks and tick-borne illnesses increases, it is crucial to take preventative measures to protect yourself and your loved ones. A1 Exterminators understands the severity of this issue and offers a variety of tick prevention services to help keep your property safe. From yard treatments to tick-specific pest control programs, we have the expertise to effectively manage tick populations and reduce the risk of bites. Don’t let the fear of ticks keep you from enjoying the great outdoors – contact A1 Exterminators today to learn more about our tick prevention solutions.