As the weather warms up and outdoor adventures call, there’s a hidden danger creeping through parks, backyards, and trails across the US—ticks, and more specifically, the dangerous diseases they can carry.

Doctors are raising new concerns as tick-related illnesses rise sharply, with some regions seeing a significant jump in hospital visits.



Once considered a mostly regional concern, Lyme disease is now a full-blown national issue.

In 2023, the CDC recorded a record-breaking 89,470 cases across the US—and that number is expected to rise again this year.

Some of the worst-hit states include:

• New Jersey
• New York
• Pennsylvania
• Massachusetts

In New Jersey alone, reported Lyme disease cases more than doubled from 2020 to 2024 (3,110 to 7,200). And it’s not just diagnoses—emergency room visits for tick-related illnesses in the state are also rising fast.


Experts believe a combination of factors is fueling the uptick:

• Warmer winters and longer summers (climate change), thanks to climate change, are creating the perfect breeding grounds for ticks.
• More people living near wooded or grassy areas increase contact with infected ticks.
• Improved awareness and testing mean more cases are finally being diagnosed.

Regardless of the cause, the takeaway is clear: Lyme disease is no longer just a Northeast problem—it’s spreading rapidly and reaching new communities.

Early symptoms include:

• A bullseye-shaped rash at the bite site
• Fever, chills, fatigue, body aches, and headaches

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If left untreated, it can progress to:

• Facial paralysis
• Vision problems
• Memory and concentration issues

Lyme disease is easiest to treat early, so knowing the signs—and acting fast—is critical.

How do ticks spread lyme disease?​

The black-legged tick (also called the deer tick) must stay attached for at least 24 hours to transmit the bacteria that causes Lyme disease.

That means daily tick checks can make all the difference.

Who’s most at risk?​

Anyone spending time outside—especially in grassy or wooded areas—could be exposed. This includes:

• Hikers and campers
• Gardeners and landscapers
• Children playing outdoors
• Pet owners (pets can carry ticks into the house)

You don’t need to avoid nature—just be smart about it. Here’s how:

1. Dress smart: Wear long sleeves and tuck your pants into socks.
2. Use repellent: Choose the proper and right repellents
3. Treat gear and clothing: Use permethrin-based sprays on shoes, backpacks, and outerwear.
4. Do full-body checks: Focus on hidden areas like underarms, hairlines, knees, and behind the ears.
5. Protect your pets: Talk to your vet about tick prevention and check pets after outdoor time.

Also read: See the horrifying footage: This cooking mistake could lead to a dangerous parasite infection!

What to do if you find a tick​

1. Remove it immediately with fine-tipped tweezers. Pull upward steadily—don’t twist or crush.
2. Clean the bite area and your hands with soap, water, or rubbing alcohol.
3. Save the tick in a sealed container. Your doctor may use it for identification.
4. Watch for symptoms, especially fever, fatigue, or a rash.
5. Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms develop—even if the tick is gone.

Tick territory is expanding​

Maps from the CDC show a dramatic expansion of Lyme disease cases into the Midwest, South, and even parts of the West. Even if you’ve never worried about ticks before, it may be time to start.

And don’t forget your pets—dogs and cats are also vulnerable to Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Preventatives are widely available from your veterinarian.

Lyme disease is more than a summertime nuisance—it’s a growing public health concern. But with smart prevention, daily awareness, and fast action, it doesn’t have to stand in the way of enjoying the great outdoors.

Read next: How one woman’s painful diagnosis is reminding dog owners to take extra care

Have you dealt with Lyme disease firsthand? Do you have go-to tick prevention tips? Or questions about symptoms, treatment, or regional risks? Share your story in the comments below—your voice could help someone else stay safe this summer.