As warmer weather returns to Pennsylvania, so do ticks—and they’re bringing serious health risks with them. Emergency department visits for tick bites have risen sharply across the state, a reminder that tick awareness is more important than ever.
Health care providers are urged to stay alert for signs of tickborne diseases in patients showing compatible symptoms. While Lyme disease remains common, rarer infections like hard tick relapsing fever and Powassan virus have also been detected in ticks across multiple counties. Human cases are being reported, making early recognition critical.
Another emerging concern is alpha-gal allergy syndrome, a condition triggered by tick bites that causes allergic reactions to mammalian meat. Pennsylvania residents have already been affected. Providers should keep this in mind when evaluating patients with unusual food allergies.
Everyone is encouraged to take precautions: wear long sleeves, use EPA-registered insect repellents, and check for ticks after being outdoors. If you find a tick bite or experience symptoms like fever, rash, or unusual allergic reactions, seek medical attention promptly.
For questions or additional information, call 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258) or contact your local health department.
Source: Pennsylvania Department of Health