Ticks on the Rise: A Growing Concern in New England

New England is facing a significant increase in tick populations and tick-borne illnesses. This surge is not just a minor inconvenience but a real health concern for residents. The humid weather patterns and expanding habitats of ticks are contributing to this problem. Lynne McCormack, a resident of Chilmark, has noticed a dramatic rise in tick encounters. Despite taking precautions, she finds ticks on her body regularly. Her partner, like many others on Martha’s Vineyard, suffers from Alpha-gal syndrome, an allergy caused by the bite of a Lone Star tick. This condition makes it difficult for them to consume red meat and dairy products. The data supports McCormack’s observations. Emergency room visits for tick bites in the Northeast have reached their highest levels in at least five years. In Massachusetts, the number of tick-related visits has also increased significantly compared to previous years. Experts believe this trend is due to higher humidity levels, which create ideal conditions for ticks to thrive. The blacklegged or deer tick, known for carrying Lyme disease, is particularly prevalent. About 20 percent of these ticks in New England carry Lyme disease. The nymphs, which are tiny and hard to spot, are a major concern. They thrive in humid weather, and dry conditions early in the season can reduce their numbers. Another worrying trend is the northward expansion of Lone Star ticks, which were previously found mainly in the South. These ticks are now commonly found in Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. The TickSpotter project, which collects data on tick encounters, has seen a more than 300 percent increase in Lone Star tick sightings over the past three years. Residents are taking various measures to protect themselves and their families. Allison Cameron Parry, a bodybuilder and mother of two, has had to adjust her diet and lifestyle due to Alpha-gal syndrome. She is concerned about her young son playing outside and uses natural sprays to keep ticks at bay. Experts recommend several precautions to avoid tick bites. Treating clothes with permethrin, a tick repellent, and removing ticks as soon as they are noticed can help prevent infections. Wearing light-colored, long-sleeved clothing makes it easier to spot ticks. For pets, oral medications and topical ointments can provide protection. The development of vaccines and treatments for tick-borne diseases offers hope. A Lyme disease vaccine is in late-stage clinical trials, and other treatments are being researched. While these advancements are promising, residents must remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones.