Two species of ticks known to carry dangerous pathogens have been identified in new areas of Connecticut, expanding the potential risk of tick-borne diseases for millions of residents. The lone star tick, typically found in southern states, and the Asian longhorned tick, usually present in the Northeast and mid-Atlantic regions, have now been discovered in multiple southern Connecticut counties, including New Haven, Fairfield, and New London, with a notable concentration in Waterford.
The presence of both tick species is particularly concerning due to their ability to transmit Ehrlichiosis, a bacterial illness that can cause severe flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. If left untreated, Ehrlichiosis can lead to organ failure, respiratory distress, seizures, or coma. The lone star tick also poses a risk of transmitting alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), a potentially life-threatening allergy to a molecule found in red meat and dairy products.
Dr. Goudarz Molaei of the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station described the situation as a "perfect storm," noting the potential for disease agents to be exchanged between the two tick species, both of which feed on white-tailed deer. This co-occurrence in new areas elevates the risk of disease transmission.
Residents in affected counties, especially those near the coast, are advised to be vigilant and monitor for ticks. The spread of these tick species to new regions is attributed to factors including a warming climate, wildlife migration, and environmental changes.
This development follows other recent findings of tick-borne diseases in new areas. Last year, the bacterium Borrelia mayonii, which causes a more severe form of Lyme disease, was detected for the first time in New York. Prior to this, the pathogen had only been identified in humans in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Additionally, a rare case of Rickettsia lanei infection was recently recorded in California, marking the fourth human case globally.
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates a significant increase in emergency department visits related to tick bites. In April, visits were at their highest level since 2017, with the Northeast region reporting the highest rates. The Northeast also leads in hospital visit rates for tick bites, with a substantial increase observed recently.
Ticks inhabit grassy, brushy, and wooded environments. They transmit diseases by feeding on blood and can inject pathogens into the host through their saliva. The longer a tick remains attached, the greater the risk of infection, though some viruses can be transmitted in as little as 15 minutes. Prompt removal of ticks using tweezers, grasping them close to the skin and avoiding squeezing, is recommended to minimize infection risk. Annually, an estimated 31 million Americans are bitten by ticks, with nearly 476,000 contracting Lyme disease.