CDC Flags Early Surge In Tick Bites, Raising Lyme Disease Concerns

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and U.S. doctors are reporting an early surge in tick bites across the United States this spring, raising immediate concerns about a worse-than-usual Lyme disease season, health officials warned. (pbs.org)

Clinics in several states say they are seeing more patients with recent tick encounters and early symptoms such as fever and rashes. Many clinicians are urging quicker testing and treatment to prevent long-term complications, and public-health officials are stepping up alerts to clinicians and the public. (pbs.org)

The episode traces back to a mild winter and an earlier warm spell that have brought ticks out of dormancy sooner than usual. These conditions, combined with more people spending time outdoors, set the stage for higher bite rates and put Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections at greater risk of spreading than in typical years. (pbs.org)

Health officials advise regular tick checks, use of EPA-registered repellents, treating clothing with permethrin, and prompt removal of attached ticks. Seek medical care for a spreading rash or fever after a tick bite so providers can consider early antibiotic treatment and testing. (pbs.org)