United States – Tick bite-related emergency room visits are surging nationwide as warmer spring weather accelerates the start of tick season, raising concerns among health officials.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, emergency department visits for tick bites have climbed to their highest level in nearly a decade, with early April data showing a sharp increase compared to previous years.
So far this month, approximately 96 out of every 100,000 emergency room visits in the U.S. have been linked to tick bites. That figure is nearly three times higher than rates recorded in March and significantly above the 68 per 100,000 reported during the same period in 2025.
Data trends suggest the spike could continue. In 2025, tick-related emergency visits peaked in May at 129 per 100,000, indicating that the current rise may be an early indicator of an even more active season ahead.
Regional data shows the Northeast currently reporting the highest rate of tick bite-related visits, followed by the Midwest. Health experts note that tick activity typically increases as temperatures rise and people spend more time outdoors.
Children and older adults appear to be among the most affected groups, with higher visit rates reported in younger age brackets and adults over 60.
Officials urge the public to take precautions, including using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves in wooded or grassy areas and performing tick checks after outdoor activities.
With peak months still ahead, health authorities warn this season could bring an elevated risk of tick-borne illnesses if current trends continue.
