Spring actually arrived this last Sunday, and there are hints of spring-like activity all around! Some of the unwelcome critters that become active in the spring are TICKS!

In the past, I’ve generally downplayed the role of ticks in Ohio in transmitting important disease, especially Lyme disease. Back in the 1990’s the blacklegged tick (the actual species that normally transmits Lyme disease) didn’t seem to like Ohio. Surveys found true deer and groundhog ticks which are similar, but not the actual blacklegged tick. Also, virtually all the Lyme disease reports from Ohio physicians were usually traced back to people who had traveled in areas that Lyme disease was endemic.

It used to be the case that you were more likely to get Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Ohio, but last year, 60 Lyme disease cases were reported compared to only 18 RMSF reports!!

In short, ticks and tick control is increasing in importance across Ohio. The blacklegged tick prefers wooded and woodlot-field edge habitat but the American dog tick can be in more open fields. Hunters and hikers need to be especially diligent in putting on tick repellents and inspecting their bodies after outings. Lyme disease can also infect dogs, cats, cattle and horses. Those animals can suffer greatly from the disease. Vets are being warned of this issue so that they can put it on the diagnostic radar when pet owners bring in pets that are displaying joint aches and pains. Strong antibiotics can cure an infection, but early detection is important for rapid success.