NYC's tick, mosquito season could among worst yet: experts
New York Post • • health
Key Points:
- New York City is facing a potential surge in tick and mosquito populations this spring and summer due to warming temperatures and increased host animals, raising public health concerns.
- Tick-related emergency room visits in the Northeast have sharply increased, with ticks now found in 70% of NYC parks and even affecting pets in the city.
- The invasive Asian tiger mosquito, a known disease vector, is extending its activity period later into the year, heightening the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses such as West Nile Virus and chikungunya.
- Lyme disease remains the most prevalent tick-borne illness in New York, with over 19,000 cases reported in 2023, and other emerging threats include alpha-gal syndrome transmitted by Lone Star ticks.
- Preventative measures include using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, conducting thorough tick checks, and eliminating standing water; a Lyme disease vaccine is under development but not yet available.
