Tick bites are becoming increasingly common, with reported cases of Lyme disease reaching an all-time high since 2017, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The rise in tick-borne illnesses is attributed to warmer temperatures due to climate change, which allows ticks to thrive in areas previously inhospitable.
Lyme disease-carrying deer ticks are most active when temperatures exceed 45°F (7°C) and prefer humid environments with at least 85% humidity. Experts warn that ticks can be found in even the most unlikely places, including woodlands and shaded areas where temperature and humidity levels remain consistent.
Dr. Thomas Daniels, director of the Louis Calder Center, notes that Lyme disease is now well-established in Canada, whereas it was relatively rare in the mid-1980s. The bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease, can be transmitted through a tick’s saliva during feeding.
The onset of Lyme disease may present differently than the classic bull’s-eye rash, with symptoms such as a pinkish or reddish rash, facial palsy, meningitis, and cardiac issues. Without prompt treatment, symptoms can last for months or even years.
Preventing tick bites is crucial, but experts caution that no protection method is foolproof. The most effective measure is to remove ticks promptly, ideally within 24-48 hours of attachment. Experts advise wearing protective clothing, conducting regular “tick checks,” and using permethrin-treated clothes.
When hiking, staying on trails and taking a shower at the end of the day can help reduce tick encounters. If a tick is found attached, it’s essential to remove it with tweezers, not attempting to burn or poison it. By being aware of the risks and taking preventive measures, individuals can minimize their chances of contracting Lyme disease.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/05/health/lyme-disease-tick-climate-wellness