#United States #Memphis #Terminix #Lyme Disease #Tick Infestation

Terminix's First Tick Infestation Ranking

As the summer heats up, tick activity has surged to alarming levels across the United States. Terminix, a well-known pest control company, has published its first-ever ranking of the Top 25 Most Tick-Infested States in the U.S. This report is based on exclusive pest management data from 2024, shedding light on which states are at the highest risk for tick-borne diseases and offering crucial insights for homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Top States at Risk

The states identified as experiencing the most significant tick activity include California, Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, and New York. These areas boast warmer climates with higher humidity and abundant green spaces—elements that contribute to tick survival and population growth. In particular, major urban centers such as New York City, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia have ranked among the highest for tick infestations, highlighting that even densely populated areas are not immune to these pests.

In the Northeastern part of the United States, common tick species like the black-legged tick and the American dog tick are prevalent. "This isn't just a nuisance; tick activity is posing a serious public health threat. Climate change is exacerbating this issue, allowing ticks to thrive longer and more robustly, which in turn raises the risk for human exposure," explains Tom Dobrinska, the Technical Service Manager at Terminix.

Key Statistics

The study identified the top ten states most impacted by tick infestations:
1. California
2. Florida
3. Texas
4. Pennsylvania
5. New York
6. Georgia
7. New Jersey
8. Arizona
9. Massachusetts
10. Ohio

These states not only see a high tick count, but they are also often linked to increased rates of tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, which can have severe health consequences. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), states in the Northeast like Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey report the most Lyme disease cases. Meanwhile, areas in the Southeast are witnessing more occurrences of ehrlichiosis and spotted fever rickettsiosis.

Implications of Tick Activity

Experts are continuously studying the effects of ticks and the diseases they carry. With the rise in tick populations, it is crucial for the public to stay informed about the dangers posed by ticks and to adopt preventative measures against bites. "As research progresses, it's critical for individuals and communities to understand the hazards associated with ticks and to take proper steps to avoid them," Dobrinska emphasizes.

Preventative Measures

To help mitigate the risks of tick bites and subsequent illnesses, Terminix offers several recommendations:

• - Avoid Tick-Infested Areas: Steer clear of wooded regions with tall grass and heavy foliage. Wear long sleeves and pants if venturing into these areas.
• - Inspect Yourself and Pets: After spending time outdoors, conduct thorough checks for ticks, especially in sensitive areas like underarms, behind the ears, and behind the knees.
• - Proper Tick Removal: If a tick does manage to attach itself, use fine-tipped tweezers to remove it carefully by pulling upward with steady pressure. Cleaning the bite area with soap and water afterward is crucial.

For additional detailed guidance on tick prevention and the full 2024 Tick Infestation Report, visit Terminix’s website at Terminix.com/Ticks.

About Rentokil Terminix

Rentokil Terminix stands as a leading provider of pest control services across North America, focusing on maintaining health, hygiene, and environmental standards. They offer comprehensive solutions against various pests, including mosquitoes and rodents. To find out more, visit EnhancedPestControl.com or their official social media channels.