Tick-borne Illnesses Expected to Surge Across New York in 2025, Officials Warn

New York residents are being cautioned about a potential explosion in the tick population this year, which could lead to a sharp rise in dangerous tick-related illnesses. With warmer months upon us, environmental and health officials are urging the public to take preventive measures before heading outdoors.

As spring transitions into summer, ticks that have remained dormant during colder months are now becoming active. Unlike many insects, ticks can survive through winter meaning they emerge in full force once temperatures rise.

Experts say 2025 could bring one of the worst tick seasons in recent years. Following a relatively mild year for tick-borne diseases in 2024, epidemiologists warn that this pattern often precedes a spike in cases the following season.

The New York State Department of Health reports that certain regions are already rated as “Extreme Risk” zones for tick activity. Other areas such as the Hudson Valley, Catskills, Capital Region, Upstate and Western New York are also at “High Risk.”

While Lyme disease remains the most well-known tick-related illness, health officials are also concerned about the growing prevalence of anaplasmosis and babesiosis. These illnesses, also spread by tick bites, can cause severe complications and may be harder to diagnose in early stages.

8 Tick Species Found in New York

Several species of ticks are active throughout New York, each with different health risks:

-American Dog Tick: Known to carry Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

-Asian Longhorned Tick: First detected in the U.S. in 2017, often found on livestock and wildlife.

-Brown Dog Tick: Mostly bites dogs, but can transmit diseases to humans.

-Eastern Blacklegged Tick: Main vector for Lyme disease in New York.

-Groundhog Tick: Rarely bites humans but can carry Lyme.

-Lone Star Tick: Spreading northward; known for aggressive biting behavior.

-Rabbit Tick: Typically infects rabbits, rarely humans, but can transmit Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

-Winter Tick: Active during colder months, usually found on deer and moose.

Before Going Outside

1. Know Where Ticks Live

Ticks prefer wooded, brushy areas and tall grasses. Be cautious when hiking, gardening, or walking your dog.

2. Treat Gear and Clothing

Use Permethrin-based spray (.5%) on shoes, clothing, and gear before heading out. You can also purchase pre-treated items.

3. Apply EPA-Approved Repellents

Choose repellents with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow label instructions.

4. Stick to the Center of Trails

Avoid brushing against vegetation by walking in the center of paths or trails.

After Returning Indoors

5. Inspect Clothing Immediately

Check and remove any ticks from clothes. Toss clothes in a hot dryer for at least 10 minutes to kill lingering ticks.

6. Do a Full-Body Check

Examine your body thoroughly, especially behind ears, knees, underarms, and around the waistline.

7. Check Pets

Ticks often latch onto animals. Examine your pets' ears, paws, and underbelly, and consider using veterinarian-approved tick prevention.

8. Inspect All Gear

Backpacks, jackets, and other gear can harbor ticks.

Tick-borne Illnesses Expected to Surge Across New York in 2025, Officials Warn