Asian Longhorned Tick is Here to Stay
Exotic, New Tick is Spreading Across the United States & May Spread Diseases
A tick native to Asia has invaded many states in North America, including New York.
The Asian longhorned tick made its first appearance in the United States on a dog in 2013, then reappeared in 2017 on a sheep. Both occurrences happened in New Jersey.
Since then, this tick species has been found in eight states — including New York.
And the Center for Disease Control (CDC) isn’t ignoring it.
The CDC is now warning the American population of the potential dangers of the “fast-multiplying exotic tick.”
As of December 2018, Asian longhorned ticks have been found on animals in Arkansas, Connecticut, Maryland, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.
With the spread of this brownish-red tick comes the concern of dangerous diseases being spread to humans and animals.
What We Know About Asian Longhorned Ticks
Unlike other species of ticks, the female Asian longhorn can reproduce up to 2,000 eggs at a time without mating.
This can lead to hundreds, if not thousands, of ticks being found on humans and livestock.
“The full public health and agricultural impact of this tick discovery and spread is unknown,” said Ben Beard, Ph.D., deputy director of CDC’s Division of Vector-Borne Diseases. “In other parts of the world, the Asian longhorned tick can transmit many types of pathogens common in the United States.
“We are concerned that this tick, which can cause massive infestations on animals, on people, and in the environment, is spreading in the United States.”
Preventing the Spread of Tick-borne Disease
The CDC is working to limit the spread of this tick and tick-borne illnesses.
To do this, the federal organization is working with federal, state, and local experts to:
- Determine location and distribution of the Asian longhorned tick throughout the United States.
- Determine how frequently people and animals have sustained tick bites since the arrival of the exotic species.
- Determine if new lab testing is needed to detect pathogens carried by the Asian longhorned tick.
These steps will help to establish an effective strategy for tick control and disease prevention.
What to Do if a Tick is Spotted
It’s important to know that everyone can take the necessary steps to prevent tick bites and the spread of tick-borne diseases.
To avoid ticks and the diseases they spread, it’s important to wear repellent and protective clothing while spending time outside.
Additionally, after spending time in an area where ticks might be prevalent, you should:
- Thoroughly check yourself, family members, and pets.
- Shower within two hours of coming indoors to help wash off unattached ticks and reduce the risk of Lyme disease.
- Remove any tick found on yourself or animal.
- If a tick is found, it should be saved in a container with rubbing alcohol and your local health department should be contacted.
Professional Tick Control & Prevention
The presence of ticks has always been prevalent in New England.
Because of this, Catseye Pest Control uses a time-tested process for eliminating ticks and putting your mind at ease. It also offers an industry-leading Organic Tick & Mosquito Program to combat all ticks, including what we currently know about the Asian longhorned tick species.
After a free initial inspection of your property, the organic tick and mosquito control program is customized for your home to eliminate both types of pests, including the newly discovered ones.
To remove the threat of ticks from your property, contact us and let’s take care of your property the right way.