Health officials across Pennsylvania are urging residents to take extra precautions this spring as the state enters what is projected to be a “high-risk” tick season, fueled by warmer temperatures and a growing tick population.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, much of the state—especially regions such as the Susquehanna Valley and the Philadelphia suburbs—is expected to see elevated tick activity in 2026. Experts attribute the surge to a mild winter that allowed more ticks to survive, along with the continued expansion of deer tick populations.
While ticks are often associated with wooded hiking trails, officials note that many bites occur much closer to home. Routine activities such as gardening, mowing the lawn or clearing leaf piles can expose residents to ticks, particularly during April when adult deer ticks are most active.
Medical professionals say the early part of the season is already showing signs of concern. Emergency room visits for tick bites are reportedly up compared to last year, underscoring the need for awareness and prevention.
The most common illness linked to tick bites remains Lyme disease, with Pennsylvania continuing to report some of the highest case numbers in the country. However, health officials are also monitoring other emerging threats, including Anaplasmosis, which can cause fever and muscle aches, and Powassan virus, a rare but potentially severe illness that can be transmitted quickly after a tick attaches.
Another growing concern is Alpha-gal syndrome, a condition linked to the bite of the Lone Star tick that can trigger an allergy to red meat. That species has been increasingly detected in central Pennsylvania in recent years.
Health officials recommend a layered approach to prevention. In addition to using insect repellents, experts advise wearing permethrin-treated clothing when working in high-risk areas, as the chemical can kill ticks on contact and remains effective through multiple washes.
Simple steps can also make a difference, such as tucking pants into socks when walking through tall grass, creating barriers of mulch or gravel between lawns and wooded areas, and performing thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors. Showering within two hours of coming inside can help reduce the risk of ticks attaching.
If a tick is found, it should be removed promptly with fine-tipped tweezers by pulling straight upward. Health officials caution against using home remedies, which may increase the risk of infection.
Residents are advised to monitor for symptoms such as a bullseye rash or flu-like illness in the weeks following a potential exposure and to seek medical care if symptoms develop.
Source: PennWATCH