Rising Concern: Understanding the Surge of Tick-Borne Diseases in North America

Tom Sam
Aug 11
3 min read

The rise of tick-borne diseases in North America poses a significant public health challenge. Recent years have shown a steady increase in cases. In fact, the CDC reports that Lyme disease cases have tripled since the early 1990s. As climate change reshapes ecosystems and human activities encroach on wildlife areas, the conditions for tick proliferation are thriving. This blog post explores why ticks are becoming more prevalent, which diseases we should be aware of, and how we can safeguard ourselves.

The Growing Threat of Ticks

Ticks are small arachnids that latch onto mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians to feed on their blood. They carry several harmful diseases, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

The rising tick populations stem from several key issues. One major factor is warmer temperatures. A study noted that areas once too cold for tick survival now have populations increasing by up to 24% annually. Increased rainfall also contributes, creating the moist environments ticks prefer. Lastly, urban development and deforestation bring humans closer to tick habitats, raising the risk of bites.

Understanding Tick-Borne Diseases

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is the most recognized tick-borne illness. It is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is mainly transmitted by the black-legged tick. Symptoms can vary widely, with mild signs like fever and fatigue escalating to serious complications such as joint pain and neurological disorders if untreated.

The CDC estimates that nearly 476,000 people are treated for Lyme disease each year in the United States, particularly in the northeastern and north-central regions. This highlights the importance of preventive measures, especially in high-risk areas.

Other Notable Tick-Borne Diseases

Other tick-borne diseases are rising alongside Lyme disease. Here are a few more to watch for:

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF): This severe illness is caused by Rickettsia rickettsii and is transmitted by the American dog tick. Without timely treatment, it can lead to death. Symptoms typically start with fever and a rash, progressing to aches throughout the body.
Anaplasmosis: Caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum, this disease is also transmitted by black-legged ticks. Symptoms can include fever, chills, and muscle aches. The CDC reported that around 5,000 cases of anaplasmosis were documented in 2020 alone.
Babesiosis: This disease is caused by parasites that invade red blood cells. It is transmitted by the black-legged tick, with symptoms ranging from mild flu-like signs to severe complications. About 200 cases are reported to the CDC annually, though the actual number may be higher due to underreporting.

The Role of Climate Change

Climate change significantly impacts the number of tick-borne diseases. Warmer global temperatures allow ticks to survive in areas that were once unsuitable for them. For instance, the northern range of the black-legged tick has expanded significantly, leading to an increase in the number of Lyme disease cases in areas like Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Additionally, climate change alters the life cycles of ticks and their animal hosts, leading to longer periods of tick activity. Studies show that milder winters can result in tick activity starting weeks earlier in the spring and extending much later into the fall.

Prevention and Protection

As concern over tick-borne diseases grows, it's vital for individuals to take steps to protect themselves. Here are some effective strategies:

Wear Protective Clothing: When in wooded or grassy areas, opt for long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Light-colored clothing can help you spot ticks more easily.
Use Insect Repellent: Apply an insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to your skin and clothing, following the instructions for safe usage.
Perform Tick Checks: After outdoor activities, conduct thorough tick checks on yourself, your children, and pets. Pay special attention to areas like the scalp, behind the ears, underarms, and behind the knees.
Create a Tick-Safe Yard: Maintaining your yard can help prevent tick infestations. Regularly mow the lawn, remove leaf litter, and set up barriers between wooded areas and recreational spaces. You may also consider using appropriate tick control products.
Stay Informed: Awareness is crucial. Stay updated on local tick populations and the diseases they carry. Resources from the CDC and local health departments can offer valuable insights into tick activities specific to your area.

Taking Action Together

The rising threat of tick-borne diseases in North America is influenced by various factors, including environmental changes and human behavior. As the risks grow, we must remain alert and take proactive measures to safeguard ourselves and our families. By understanding the threats and employing effective strategies, we can significantly reduce the impact of these diseases on our communities.

As we confront this increasing concern, fostering a culture of awareness is vital. Educating ourselves and others about tick-borne diseases helps promote a healthier future and equips us to work together in combating these serious health threats.