As New Yorkers prepare for the upcoming holiday weekend, Governor Kathy Hochul has issued a reminder to take precautions against illnesses spread by ticks and mosquitoes. The warning comes as tick populations have increased across the state due to warmer temperatures and changing climate conditions, raising the risk of bites even in areas previously considered low-risk.
Governor Hochul stated, “New York’s parks, mountains, lakes and beaches are the perfect places to spend the holiday weekend, so make the most of your time outdoors by protecting yourself from ticks and mosquitoes and the diseases they can carry. Remember to use protective clothing and repellent to help keep you, your family and pets safe and healthy.”
Tick activity is highest during spring, summer, and fall. Lyme disease remains the most common tick-borne illness in New York State. Over the past three years, there has been an average of more than 17,500 new cases annually; in 2023 alone, over 19,000 cases were reported—the highest number in recent history.
Lyme disease is caused by bacteria transmitted through blacklegged (deer) ticks. The nymph stage of these ticks poses particular risk because they are very small—about the size of a poppy seed—and often go undetected long enough to transmit infection. Symptoms include an expanding rash resembling a bull’s eye or solid patch near the bite site as well as flu-like symptoms such as fever or chills, muscle aches, headache or fatigue within 30 days of infection. Prompt medical attention is advised if symptoms develop.
Other tick-borne diseases present in New York include babesiosis (an average of 600 infections per year), anaplasmosis (1,300 per year), along with less common illnesses like ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Powassan virus disease. These diseases vary in severity but can lead to serious illness or death if untreated. Some pathogens such as Powassan virus can be transmitted within just 15 minutes after a tick bite.
Mosquitoes also pose health risks throughout New York State. On average between 2020-2023 there have been about 55 cases of West Nile virus reported each year; last year saw two human cases of Eastern equine encephalitis—the first since 2015 in New York State. Diseases spread by mosquitoes can affect individuals regardless of age; while some experience no symptoms at all others may develop mild to severe illness or rarely die from complications.
Dr. James McDonald, Commissioner of Health for New York State said: “When spending time outside, it’s important to take precautions to protect against diseases that can be transmitted by ticks or mosquitoes. New Yorkers should remember that it only takes one bite from a tick or a mosquito to potentially cause illness. Stay healthy and keep pests away this fourth of July weekend by following simple methods to avoid being bitten.”
Residents are encouraged to use light-colored long pants and sleeves when outdoors; check for ticks frequently; perform thorough body checks after returning indoors; tumble clothes on high heat; shower soon after outdoor activities; inspect pets for ticks; consider EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin or IR3535; wear permethrin-treated clothing where appropriate.
If a tick is found attached it should be removed promptly using fine-tipped tweezers—avoid alternative removal methods which could increase infection risk.
For protection against mosquitoes people should cover exposed skin especially during peak activity times at sunrise and sunset; use insect repellent according to label instructions; dress children appropriately including using netting on strollers when needed.
The Department of Health regularly collects data on both tick populations and mosquito-borne disease trends across New York State for public awareness efforts. More information about Lyme disease prevention is available at https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/lyme/. Guidance on reducing mosquito exposure around homes can be found at https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/mosquitoes/.
