Residents of the Northeast region are being urged to exercise caution due to a heightened risk of tick-borne diseases. The Tick Index from Fordham University indicates a risk level of nine out of ten, prompting recommendations for individuals in New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey to limit outdoor exposure. Experts advise that if you were planning a hike, consider opting for indoor activities instead, as both nymph and adult ticks are particularly active in the current warm and wet conditions.
Significantly, a Connecticut beach, Pleasure Beach, has been closed for the entirety of the 2025 summer season due to concerns over multiple tick species, including the invasive Asian longhorned tick. The City of Bridgeport made the announcement via Facebook, stating that the closure follows consultations with state environmental experts. City officials are committed to conducting treatment and containment in hopes of reopening the beach by 2026.
The common tick species prevalent in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut include deer ticks, American dog ticks, and lone star ticks. Of particular concern are nymphal black-legged ticks, known for carrying various diseases, including Lyme disease. This infection can lead to severe symptoms such as facial paralysis and irregular heartbeats if left untreated. In 2023 alone, federal authorities recorded over 89,000 Lyme disease cases, primarily in the Northeast.
Nymph ticks are challenging to detect as they are the size of a poppy seed, and symptoms can mirror other conditions. People infected with Lyme may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever and fatigue, and the characteristic “bull’s-eye” rash is not always present. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights the importance of recognizing and treating the condition promptly to avoid complications.
To minimize the risk of tick exposure, experts recommend wearing tightly fitted clothing, tucking in shirts and pants, and using clothing treated with a 0.5 percent permethrin repellent. Joellen Lampman from the New York State Integrated Pest Management program warns that New York City has seen an increase in black-legged tick populations, indicating that residents should remain vigilant.
In conclusion, while ticks present a real danger during this time of year, increased awareness and proactive measures can help mitigate the risks. With preventive strategies in place, people can enjoy the outdoors safely while protecting themselves from potential health threats posed by ticks.