Ticks Named 2025 Pest of the Year Amid Rising Health Concerns from ER Visits
The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has officially declared ticks as the 2025 Pest of the Year. This decision comes amidst rising concerns regarding public health and a notable increase in tick bite-related emergency room visits, which have hit a five-year high. With numerous health risks associated with these tiny parasites, the NPMA's announcement serves as a critical reminder for all outdoor enthusiasts and homeowners to remain vigilant.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tick bites have become a significant public health concern, not merely a bothersome nuisance. Ticks are known vectors for various diseases including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and alpha-gal syndrome, all of which can lead to serious health issues. Dr. Jim Fredericks, a Board-Certified Entomologist and Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at NPMA, emphasizes the urgent need for public awareness: "Ticks may be small, but their impact on public health is massive. That's why we're shining a spotlight on ticks this year and reminding everyone to take prevention seriously."
NPMA's decision was based on an analysis of several factors, including social media engagement, web traffic to pest prevention information, and media coverage. Interestingly, while ticks took the Pest of the Year title, bed bugs were noted for generating the most buzz on social media, concerning people about infestations in hotels, homes, and other public spaces. Recognizing the widespread concern, the NPMA launched Bed Bugs Exposed, a microsite and mini-series designed to educate consumers on identifying and preventing bed bug infestations effectively.
Major cities such as Chicago, New York, and Atlanta ranked as the top locations seeking pest management information, indicating a proactive approach among residents worried about pest threats. The NPMA's PestWorld.org platform provides resources including a pest pro locator feature for users to find qualified pest management professionals quickly.
So, when should you call in a pest management professional? If you notice ticks in your yard, suspect a bed bug infestation in your home, or any other pests causing concern, seeking expert assistance can be key. Pest professionals can evaluate your property, identify pest hotspots, and execute targeted treatments to mitigate pest populations effectively.
Dr. Fredericks advises, "Prevention is an important first step, but professional pest control is the protection you need when you spot pests in your home or yard. Pest management professionals have the necessary tools and expertise to treat your home effectively and can also provide guidance on how to prevent these pests from returning."
In conclusion, with tick bites on the rise and new bed bug concerns surfacing, the importance of pest management cannot be overstated. For more information on how to protect yourself and your home from these pests, consider visiting PestWorld.org, where you can access a multitude of resources designed to empower consumers in their quest for pest control. It’s crucial to stay informed and proactive to safeguard the health and well-being of your family and community against these pervasive threats.
The NPMA, established in 1933 and a non-profit organization with over 4,000 members, remains committed to the protection of public health, food, and property from pest-related threats. For more information about pest management solutions and to stay updated on relevant pest issues, follow @PestWorld on major social media platforms.