Ticks are becoming a bigger problem as temperatures rise, with Lyme disease cases skyrocketing in places like West Virginia. Instead of just a few cases, there are now hundreds. Howard Gamble, from the local health department, warns that if you’re bitten by a tick, especially if it’s stuck in your skin, you need to see a doctor. Last year, West Virginia had over 1,000 cases, and this year looks to be just as bad. Even places like New York and Massachusetts are seeing record numbers.
Emergency rooms are seeing more tick bites than ever, even earlier in the year than usual. Lyme disease is caused by bacteria from ticks found in grassy and wooded areas. It starts with a distinctive rash but can lead to serious problems if untreated. Despite treatment being available, it can be hard to diagnose, leading to long-term issues.
Celebrities like Justin Bieber and Bella Hadid have brought attention to Lyme disease, but it’s a growing concern for everyone. The disease is tricky to detect early, leading to misdiagnosis and prolonged suffering. Cases have been rising steadily since 2014, and longer summers mean ticks are active for longer, spreading the disease to new areas.
Rhode Island, Vermont, and Maine saw the most cases last year, and other tick-borne diseases like Powassan virus are on the rise too. This virus can cause severe neurological problems, and it’s spreading to new areas like Sharon, Massachusetts.
Ticks are most active from March to May and August to November, but warmer weather is extending their season. They hang out on grasses and branches, waiting for a host to pass by. To avoid bites, cover up with long clothing, and if you’re bitten, remove the tick carefully to prevent infection.
