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Tick-related emergency room visits surge across Virginia
WVIR • • health
Key Points:
- Virginia is experiencing an increase in tick activity this year, with more tick-related emergency room visits reported in spring and summer compared to previous years.
- Ticks can transmit infections and cause alpha-gal syndrome, a red meat allergy that develops after a tick bite.
- Tick season peaks in spring and summer but can extend into fall, with some species like Lone Star ticks remaining active on mild winter days.
- Preventive measures include using deterrents such as DEET on skin, treating outdoor clothing with permethrin, and conducting daily tick checks after outdoor activities.
- A CDC study and local emergency room data both indicate that 2024 is shaping up to be a significant year for tick activity in Virginia.
