HEALTH

N.J. county issues alert for peak tick season as cases rise statewide

Health officials in Hunterdon County are reminding residents to take precautions against ticks in the hot summer months.

The county’s health department reports that tiny young ticks, particularly deer ticks, are currently highly active and will remain so through mid-July.

In 2020, the Garden State reported 3,110 tick-borne illnesses. That number more than doubled to 7,200 in 2024, according to the New Jersey Department of Health.

  • ER visits for this tiny blood-sucking parasite are ticking up in N.J.

These small parasites can transmit several serious illnesses including Lyme disease and babesiosis.

“We’re now in the peak season for tick activity, especially for deer ticks, which are very small and easy to miss,” said Deputy Director Shaun C. Van Doren, who serves as the liaison to the Health Department. “It’s important for everyone to take simple steps to stay safe when spending time outside. Prevention is the best way to avoid tick-borne diseases.”

County officials note that other tick species are also active during this period.

Longhorned ticks are currently in their juvenile stage and will mature later this summer. While they primarily affect animals, they may also pose risks to humans.

Lone Star ticks, which can transmit ehrlichiosis and have been linked to alpha-gal syndrome (a red meat allergy), are more commonly found in southern New Jersey and Shore areas.

Though rare in Hunterdon County, they may still be present in small numbers.

To protect against tick bites, the Health Department recommends several preventive measures:

  • use EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET
  • perform regular tick checks after outdoor activities
  • shower soon after coming indoors
  • promptly remove any attached ticks using proper techniques

For additional information about tick identification and prevention, residents can contact the Hunterdon County Health Department at 908-788-1351 or visit www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/health.

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Questions about this post may be directed to Linda O’Brien at lobrien@njadvancemedia.com.

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Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff.

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