Emergency room visits for tick bites are spiking across the U.S. this summer, with CDC data showing a sharp increase compared to recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 2017 had higher tick-related ER numbers since tracking began.

Ticks are already prevalent in the woods in Lorain County. However, health officials now report that another species of tick has migrated to the area, bringing the threat of Lyme disease with it.

A tick bite can look like a red, swollen area on your skin. There may also be a bull's eye around the bite. Sometimes, the tick will still be attached to you.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Bravecto Quantum, a new shot that protects dogs six months or older against fleas and ticks.

“If you’re out all day long, try to do a quick check for ticks every few hours,” said Bobbi Pritt at the Mayo Clinic. “When you go back inside, take a shower. That will wash off any unattached ticks, and you’re also more likely to spot any other ticks.”

Rochester, due to high forest coverage, undeveloped areas, and high population of deer and wild animals, would have the highest number of ticks. However, Marion and Mattapoisett are not short of their own foliage, and you should still maintain best practices when outdoors there.

Ticks can be active in any season, and it’s important to check for and remove the bloodsuckers as quickly as possible — especially after you’ve been outside hiking, gardening or enjoying nature.

Ticks flourish across Vermont. These tiny pests can carry viruses, bacteria, and parasites and cause at least a dozen human diseases, including Lyme. Unfortunately, we are years away from vaccinating against or curing tick-borne diseases,

“The best place for ticks is your armpits and groin because they are warm, moist, and a good source of blood,” says pest control expert Jordan Foster. These spots also have thinner skin and are dark and secluded, prime feeding environments for ticks, agrees dermatologist Purvisha Patel, MD, founder of Visha Skincare.