The Hidden Dangers: 7 Diseases You Can Get from Ticks
When most people think of ticks, they immediately think of Lyme disease—and with good reason. But Lyme is just the tip of the iceberg. Ticks can transmit a wide range of illnesses, some mild, others potentially life-threatening. As tick populations grow and spread across more of the U.S., it’s more important than ever to understand the risks they pose to you, your family, and even your pets.
Here’s a rundown of the most common (and some lesser-known) tick-borne diseases you should be aware of.
1. Lyme Disease
- Tick responsible: Blacklegged tick (a.k.a. deer tick)
- Where it’s common: Northeast, Midwest, and parts of the West Coast
- Symptoms: Fatigue, fever, headache, joint pain, and the signature bullseye-shaped rash (though not everyone gets it)
- Complications: If untreated, Lyme can affect the heart, joints, and nervous system
Lyme disease is the most well-known tick-borne illness, especially here in Connecticut where it was first identified. Early detection and antibiotics are key—so don’t ignore strange symptoms after a tick bite.
2. Anaplasmosis
- Tick responsible: Blacklegged tick (same as Lyme)
- Where it’s common: Northeast, Upper Midwest
- Symptoms: Fever, chills, muscle aches, nausea
- Complications: In severe cases, respiratory failure or organ failure
Anaplasmosis is often mistaken for the flu or a common cold, which makes it tricky to catch early. It’s especially dangerous for older adults or those with weakened immune systems.
3. Babesiosis
- Tick responsible: Blacklegged tick
- Where it’s common: Northeast and Upper Midwest
- Symptoms: Fever, chills, fatigue, dark urine
- Complications: Can be life-threatening for people with compromised immune systems
This one’s caused by a parasite—not a bacteria or virus—which means it can linger even after symptoms improve. Some people are infected and never show symptoms, but they can still pass it on through blood donation.
4. Ehrlichiosis
- Tick responsible: Lone Star tick
- Where it’s common: South-central and eastern U.S.
- Symptoms: Fever, headache, muscle aches, upset stomach
- Complications: Can become severe quickly, especially in kids or seniors
The Lone Star tick might sound friendly, but it’s responsible for a growing number of ehrlichiosis cases—and it’s expanding its range northward.
5. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF)
- Tick responsible: American dog tick, Rocky Mountain wood tick, and Lone Star tick
- Where it’s common: Southeast, South-central U.S., and parts of the West
- Symptoms: High fever, rash (starting on wrists and ankles), nausea, confusion
- Complications: If untreated, RMSF can be fatal. Early treatment is crucial.
Despite the name, RMSF is more common in states like North Carolina and Tennessee than the actual Rocky Mountains.
6. Powassan Virus
- Tick responsible: Blacklegged tick
- Where it’s common: Northeast and Great Lakes region
- Symptoms: Fever, vomiting, confusion, seizures
- Complications: Can lead to encephalitis (brain inflammation) or meningitis; no cure or specific treatment
Powassan is rare, but it’s incredibly serious—and unlike Lyme, it can be transmitted in as little as 15 minutes after a tick attaches.
7. Alpha-Gal Syndrome (Red Meat Allergy)
- Tick responsible: Lone Star tick
- Where it’s common: Southeast and expanding northward
- Symptoms: Allergic reactions to red meat (beef, pork, lamb) hours after eating; hives, stomach pain, or even anaphylaxis
- Complications: It’s not a disease in the traditional sense, but this tick-triggered condition can dramatically change a person’s diet and life
Yep, some tick bites can make you allergic to bacon. It sounds bizarre, but it’s real—and becoming more common.
What You Can Do
Tick-borne diseases are scary, but knowledge is power. Prevention is your best weapon:
- Use tick repellents on skin and clothing
- Treat your yard to reduce tick habitat
- Check yourself, your kids, and pets after spending time outdoors
- Remove ticks quickly and properly
- Know the symptoms and seek medical care early
At Tick Channel, we’re here to help you stay informed, prepared, and protected. With the right tools and information, you can enjoy the outdoors without fear.
Stay safe,
– The Tick Channel Team
