Tick Activity Reaches Highest Levels in Nearly a Decade Across Multiple U.S. States

May 29, 2026

Emergency department visits for tick bites across the U.S. have surged to their highest levels in nearly a decade, with CDC data showing 105 visits per 100,000 in April 2026. The Northeast and Midwest are seeing record or near-record rates. Experts attribute the boom to warmer winters and wet springs, which allow ticks to become active earlier and increase the risk of diseases like Lyme disease and Alpha-gal syndrome.

Tick Activity Statistics

▪Emergency department visits for tick bites in the U.S. have climbed to their highest rate in nearly 10 years.
▪In April 2026, 105 of every 100,000 emergency department visits were for tick bites, the highest rate for that month since 2017.

Regional Impact

▪All U.S. regions are reporting above-average tick activity in 2026.
▪The University of Missouri Extension has issued warnings to farmers, hikers, and homeowners about the booming tick population.
▪The Midwest saw 137 tick-related ER visits per 100,000 in April 2026, far surpassing the region's typical April average of 56 per 100,000.
▪The Northeast region recorded the highest incident rate, with 188 emergency room visits per 100,000 in April 2026.

Contributing Weather Factors

▪Ticks become fully active and begin seeking hosts once temperatures consistently cross 45 degrees.
▪Warmer-than-average winters and a record-warm March 2026 in Missouri caused ticks to become active months ahead of schedule.
▪A rainy March and April in Central Missouri created high humidity, which helps ticks survive by preventing dehydration.

Health Risks and Prevention

▪Ticks can transmit serious diseases, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and tularemia.
▪Health officials recommend using an EPA-approved insect repellent and showering within two hours of being outdoors to prevent tick bites.
▪The Lone Star tick, which thrives in warming climates, can trigger Alpha-gal syndrome, a permanent allergy to red meat and dairy products.