COLUMBIA — As warmer weather beckons residents outdoors, the arrival of spring also signals the beginning of tick season, a time when these small arachnids become more active and pose health risks to humans. According to the National Pest Management Association's bi-annual Bug Barometer, ticks are set to emerge earlier than usual this year in the Midwest, including Missouri, due to rising temperatures and wet conditions.
"Missouri is well accustomed to ticks. If you have ever spent time outside, you have probably encountered them," said Maddie Fennewald, Media Specialist for the Missouri Department of Conservation. Fennewald highlighted that there are three primary species of ticks found in Missouri: the lone star tick, the American dog tick, and the deer tick. "The lone star is one of the easier ones to tell. The females have a white dot on their back, and the males also have some white coloring. You want to treat them all the same," she explained.
Despite their small size—often smaller than a dime—ticks can transmit serious diseases to humans, including Lyme disease and Alpha-Gal syndrome. Lyme disease, caused by the bite of an infected deer tick, is often characterized by a distinctive rash around the bite area and can lead to symptoms such as fever, headaches, and fatigue. If left untreated, it can spread throughout the body, resulting in severe complications.
Alpha-Gal syndrome, on the other hand, is a food allergy triggered by bites from the lone star tick, which can cause an allergic reaction to red meat and certain mammal products. Bobbie Joe Stiritz, who has suffered from Alpha-Gal for four years, shared her experience. "I was just sick for several months, with stomach issues, and didn't feel well. I thought I had an ulcer because I would eat, then get sick to my stomach," Stiritz recounted. She noted that it took her six months to visit a doctor, during which she was unaware that some of her medications contained animal fat, exacerbating her symptoms.
To prevent tick bites and reduce the risk of contracting Lyme disease or Alpha-Gal syndrome, Fennewald recommends several strategies: wearing long clothing, regularly checking for ticks, applying insect repellent, and showering after spending time in tall grass. These measures can significantly decrease the likelihood of a tick bite.
Meanwhile, in Massachusetts, tick activity is also on the rise as spring progresses, bringing with it an increased risk of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. The state typically experiences two peaks of tick activity: in spring (April through May) and fall (September through November). Climate change has extended tick seasons, allowing for earlier spring activity and prolonged risk periods into the fall.
Massachusetts has reported some of the highest rates of Lyme disease in the nation, with cases doubling over the past 25 years to an alarming rate of 7.21 per 100,000 residents. In addition to Lyme disease, residents face threats from other tick-borne illnesses, including Babesiosis and Anaplasmosis, both of which can cause flu-like symptoms and severe complications, particularly in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. The Powassan virus, although rare, poses a deadly risk, with 10 cases reported in Massachusetts in 2023. Symptoms can range from fever to severe brain inflammation.
Ticks thrive in wooded areas, tall grass, and leaf litter, which makes it crucial for residents to take preventive measures to reduce exposure. To stay safe, experts recommend avoiding dense vegetation, using repellents containing DEET (at concentrations of 20% to 30%) or wearing permethrin-treated clothing, and performing daily tick checks on themselves, their children, and pets. Special attention should be paid to hidden areas like armpits, scalps, and behind knees.
If bitten by a tick, it is essential to remove it promptly using fine-tipped tweezers, pulling straight upward to ensure complete removal. Individuals should monitor for symptoms, including rashes (especially the characteristic "bullseye" rash associated with Lyme disease), fever, or muscle pain, which can develop days or weeks after a bite. Early intervention is critical—contacting a doctor immediately can facilitate timely treatment, which is particularly important for Lyme disease and anaplasmosis.
Residents are encouraged to take proactive steps in their yards to minimize tick populations. This includes clearing leaf litter, mowing lawns, and creating gravel or wood-chip barriers between wooded areas and play spaces. For those seeking additional assistance, professional tick control services can apply safe treatments to help reduce tick populations.
As the weather warms and outdoor activities increase, it is crucial for residents in both Missouri and Massachusetts to stay informed and vigilant about ticks. By adopting preventive habits and remaining aware of the risks associated with tick bites, individuals can enjoy the beauty of spring while minimizing their chances of encountering these tiny but potentially dangerous pests.
