Well being authorities say warmer Northeast winters add to a lot more lively deer ticks : NPR

Warm winters in the Northeastern United States have contributed to an increase in deer ticks according to health authorities.

Recent years in the northeastern US have seen milder winter weather with temperatures averaging above seasonal norms. To the joy of many, the region has seen blooming flowers and chirping birds earlier than usual. While the milder winters may be a welcome relief to many, they are also providing conditions beneficial to deer tick populations.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, deer ticks, which can spread illnesses including Lyme Disease, tend to thrive in warmer weather. In the past few years, this region of the country has witnessed an increase in both deer ticks and the diseases they can spread.

Recent research has shown that deer tick populations are double the size in areas that saw milder winters. The mild weather has been on-going since 2017 and the elevated deer tick populations seen since then are thought to be thanks to the mild weather.

In response to the growing deer tick threat, health authorities are cautioning those in the northeastern US to take extra precautions when outdoors to protect themselves from tick bites.

Health authorities recommend wearing long pants, long sleeves and light-colored clothing while outside to help avoid bites as well as checking for any attached ticks after returning indoors. In addition, people should use insect repellent and bathe their pets frequently to reduce the risk of a bite.

The rise in deer ticks thanks to milder winters is an important reminder for people across the northeastern United States to take extra caution when outdoors this summer. By taking simple precautions, people can reduce the risk of being bitten. [ad_1]

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