23/04/2026
🚨 TICK BITES ARE SURGING
New data from the CDC shows that Americans are heading to the ER for tick bites at the highest rate in nearly a decade, with especially sharp increases in the Northeast, followed by the Midwest, Southeast, West, and South-Central regions. In just one week this April, there were more than double the number of tick-related ER visits compared to the same time last year.
Doctors say they’re seeing more people come in—and earlier in the season than expected.
“We’re running well above historic average and even well above last year,” shared Dr. John J. Halperin.
So, what does this mean for you?
👉 Check sooner, not later — do a full-body tick check after spending time outside, even in your own backyard.
👉 recommends placing the tick in a plastic bag and sending it to a lab for testing.
👉 If you know or suspect a tick bite, consider prophylactic antibiotic treatment. The medical care provider and the patient should carefully weigh the risks and benefits of prophylactic antibiotic treatment in the case of a known tick bite, even before symptoms appear.
👉 Trust your instincts — if something feels off after a bite, don’t wait to seek care.
Ticks can carry multiple diseases, so this is a reminder to stay alert, check for ticks after time outdoors, and take bites seriously.