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Navigating Tick Season During Your Travels: Essential Insights

June 18, 2026 · The Clime Team
Navigating Tick Season During Your Travels: Essential Insights

Traveling across the United States during the warmer months exposes you to various tick-borne diseases. Understanding tick activity patterns and implementing preventive measures are crucial for a safe journey.

When Is Tick Season in the U.S.?

Tick activity varies by region:

  • Northeast: March to November, with peak activity from May to August for nymphs and October to November for adults.

  • Southeast: February to November, with year-round activity in milder areas.

  • Midwest: April to October, peaking in May for adults and June to July for nymphs.

  • Southwest: Year-round in deserts; April to August at higher elevations.

  • West Coast: March to June, influenced by the Mediterranean climate.

(when-is-tick-season.com)

Common Tick-Borne Diseases

Ticks can transmit several diseases:

  • Lyme Disease: The most prevalent tick-borne illness in the U.S., characterized by fever, headache, and a distinctive skin rash.

  • Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever: Symptoms include fever, rash, and abdominal pain.

  • Anaplasmosis: Causes fever, headache, and muscle aches.

  • Babesiosis: Leads to fever, chills, and fatigue.

  • Alpha-Gal Syndrome: A red meat allergy triggered by tick bites.

(cdc.gov)

Preventive Measures

To reduce tick exposure:

  • Dress Appropriately: Wear light-colored clothing, long pants, and long sleeves. Tuck shirts into pants and pants into socks.

  • Use Insect Repellent: Apply products containing at least 20% DEET to exposed skin.

  • Treat Clothing and Gear: Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear, or treat them before departure.

  • Avoid Tick Habitats: Stay out of tall grass, brush, and heavily wooded areas. Walk in the center of trails.

(wwwnc.cdc.gov)

Tick Checks and Removal

After outdoor activities:

  • Shower Promptly: Showering within two hours can help remove unattached ticks.

  • Perform Tick Checks: Examine your body, including underarms, in and around ears, inside belly button, back of knees, in and around hair, between legs, and around waist.

  • Remove Ticks Properly: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin's surface and pull upward with steady, even pressure.

(wwwnc.cdc.gov)

Regional Considerations

  • Northeast and Midwest: Ticks are most active from May to August.

  • Southeast: Ticks are active year-round, with peak activity in warmer months.

  • Southwest: Tick activity varies by elevation, with higher elevations seeing peak activity from April to August.

  • West Coast: Tick activity is influenced by the Mediterranean climate, with peak activity from March to June.

(when-is-tick-season.com)

Stay Informed

Recent data indicates a rise in tick-related illnesses across various states, including increased emergency room visits for tick bites. For instance, in April 2026, there were 104 ER visits related to tick bites per 100,000 total ER visits, a significant increase from 68 per 100,000 in April 2025. (axios.com)

Being aware of these trends and taking appropriate precautions can help ensure a safe and healthy travel experience.

Highlights:

  • Tick bite ER visits reach highest rate in nearly a decade, Published on Tuesday, May 12
  • Iowa reports more tick bites, illnesses, Published on Tuesday, May 26
  • Ticks set ER records as Lyme disease rises in Ohio, Published on Thursday, May 14

Frequently Asked Questions