NYC's Record Tick Season: Protecting Your Family in 2025

Introduction

New York City is facing an unprecedented tick season in 2025, with experts warning of the worst conditions in years. The numbers tell a startling story—last year alone, our city saw over 3,300 reported cases of Lyme disease, and this year promises to bring even greater challenges. According to the NYC Health Advisory on tick-borne diseases, warmer spring temperatures arrived earlier than usual and our summers stretch longer, families across all five boroughs are finding themselves at increased risk. Whether you're planning weekend adventures in Staten Island's green spaces or simply enjoying your local park, understanding how to protect yourself has never been more critical.

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The 2025 tick surge in NYC parks

This year's tick explosion isn't just a statistical anomaly—it's a direct result of our changing environment. Spring 2025 arrived with temperatures reaching the comfortable 70s by May, weeks earlier than typical. These warmer conditions, combined with milder winters and extended autumn warmth, have created perfect breeding conditions for ticks throughout the metropolitan area. Climate scientists point to these longer warm seasons as a key factor in expanding tick populations, with temperatures above freezing keeping these parasites active nearly year-round.

The expansion of tick populations into NYC parks has been particularly dramatic. Columbia University researchers made a troubling discovery this spring: approximately 70% of parks surveyed now harbor disease-carrying ticks. This represents a stunning increase from just three years ago when only 40% of Brooklyn and Queens parks showed tick presence. Today, that number has doubled to 80% in these boroughs.

Staten Island maintains its unfortunate distinction as the most tick-infested borough, but the real story lies in the rapid expansion elsewhere. Alley Pond Park in Queens has emerged as one of the most infested locations in the borough, while Forest Park and Highland Park are showing increasing tick populations carrying Lyme disease. Even areas previously considered safe are now at risk—Bronx parks and northern sections of the city are experiencing unprecedented tick activity.

Between March and May 2025, tick submissions to research laboratories increased by an astounding 217% compared to the same period last year. Dr. Saravanan Thangamani from SUNY Upstate Medical University received 176 tick specimens in just one week of March—a volume he describes as extraordinary for early spring. These aren't just numbers on a spreadsheet; they represent real risk to families enjoying outdoor activities across our city.

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Understanding tick-borne diseases in NYC

While ticks carry multiple diseases, three pose the greatest threat to New Yorkers. Understanding their symptoms and progression can mean the difference between quick recovery and long-term health complications.

Lyme disease remains the most common tick-borne illness, with infected ticks found throughout our region. According to the New York State Department of Health, the infamous bull's-eye rash appears in 60-80% of cases, though only about 20% show the classic target pattern. This rash, known medically as erythema migrans, typically develops 7-14 days after a bite and expands outward at a rate of 2-3 centimeters daily. It can reach up to 20 inches across and often appears as a uniform red or bluish patch rather than the textbook bull's-eye.

Early Lyme symptoms mimic the flu: fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. What distinguishes Lyme from actual flu is the absence of respiratory symptoms like runny nose or prominent cough. Left untreated, the infection can spread throughout the body, causing facial paralysis, heart palpitations, severe joint pain, and neurological problems that may persist for months or years.

Babesiosis presents a different challenge. This parasitic infection attacks red blood cells, causing symptoms that range from mild flu-like illness to life-threatening complications. Many infected individuals remain symptom-free, but those who develop illness experience high fever (91% of cases), profound fatigue, shaking chills, and drenching sweats. The disease poses particular danger to elderly individuals, those without spleens, and anyone with compromised immune systems. Unlike Lyme disease, babesiosis can occasionally spread through blood transfusions, adding another layer of concern.

Anaplasmosis rounds out the trio of major tick-borne threats in our area. Symptoms typically emerge 1-2 weeks after infection: fever, severe headache, muscle aches, and chills. Laboratory tests often reveal low white blood cell counts, decreased platelets, and elevated liver enzymes. While most cases resolve with proper treatment, severe complications can include respiratory failure, bleeding problems, and kidney failure.

Recent testing of ticks submitted in 2025 revealed alarming infection rates: 34.8% carried Lyme disease, 11% harbored babesiosis, and 18% contained anaplasmosis. Remarkably, one-third of all ticks tested positive for at least one disease-causing agent, consistent with patterns described in recent New England Journal of Medicine reviews on emerging tick-borne disease trends.

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Top 5 tick prevention tips for NYC families

Protection starts with smart prevention strategies that work in our urban environment. The CDC's comprehensive prevention guidelines recommend these evidence-based approaches:

1. Master the art of repellent use. Permethrin-treated clothing provides near-perfect protection, killing ticks within 30 seconds of contact. This treatment lasts through dozens of washes and creates an invisible barrier around your body. For exposed skin, DEET (25-30% concentration) offers 8 hours of reliable protection, while picaridin (20%) can last up to 14 hours. Apply repellents after sunscreen and reapply according to product instructions.

2. Create a tick-check routine. Within two hours of returning indoors, shower to wash away unattached ticks. Conduct thorough body checks, paying special attention to hidden areas: behind knees, around the waist, in the groin area, under arms, and throughout the scalp. Don't forget to check children and pets—ticks often attach in hard-to-see locations. Place outdoor clothing directly in the dryer on high heat for 10 minutes to kill any hitchhiking ticks.

3. Dress strategically for outdoor adventures. Light-colored clothing makes ticks easier to spot before they reach skin. Tuck long pants into socks and shirts into pants to create physical barriers. Choose smooth, tightly-woven fabrics over rough materials where ticks can easily grab hold. While it might feel warm, this protection is worth the minor discomfort during peak tick season.

4. Modify your outdoor habits. Stay on designated trails and avoid brushing against vegetation where ticks wait for passing hosts. Walk in the center of paths, especially in parks like Alley Pond or Forest Park where tick populations are high. Time activities to avoid peak tick hours when possible—early morning when dew is heavy tends to have fewer active ticks.

5. Protect your pets as the first line of defense. Daily tick checks on dogs and cats prevent these parasites from entering your home. Work with your veterinarian to choose appropriate preventive medications—prescription products far outperform over-the-counter options. Focus checks on ears, armpits, between toes, and around the tail. Consider the Lyme vaccine for dogs if you frequently visit high-risk areas.

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Recognizing tick bites and early symptoms

Quick identification and proper response to tick encounters can prevent disease transmission. When you find an attached tick, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure—never twist or jerk, which can leave mouthparts embedded. Clean the bite area thoroughly with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.

Normal tick bite reactions include a small red bump that resolves within days. However, certain signs demand immediate medical attention. An expanding rash, especially one exceeding 2 inches in diameter, signals possible Lyme disease transmission. Fever developing within three weeks of outdoor exposure, flu-like symptoms during tick season, or neurological symptoms like facial drooping or severe headaches all warrant prompt evaluation.

Document any tick encounters with photos and notes about the date, location, and how long the tick was attached. This information proves invaluable if symptoms develop later. Save removed ticks in a sealed container with a damp cotton ball—if illness occurs, the tick can be tested to guide treatment decisions.

Early warning signs vary by disease but share common elements. The expanding rash of Lyme disease may appear anywhere from 3 to 30 days post-bite. Babesiosis symptoms can emerge up to 9 weeks after exposure, sometimes longer. Anaplasmosis typically manifests within 1-2 weeks. The key is maintaining vigilance during these windows and seeking care at the first sign of illness.

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When to see a doctor

Clear guidelines help determine when professional medical evaluation becomes necessary. Seek immediate care if an expanding rash develops around a tick bite site, if fever emerges within weeks of potential exposure, or if flu-like symptoms occur after spending time in tick habitat. Neurological symptoms—facial paralysis, severe headaches, neck stiffness, or confusion—require emergency evaluation.

Certain situations warrant preventive treatment even without symptoms. If you remove an engorged deer tick that was attached for 36 hours or more, contact your healthcare provider within 72 hours. In endemic areas like Staten Island or northern Bronx, doctors may prescribe a single dose of doxycycline to prevent Lyme disease development.

High-risk individuals should maintain even lower thresholds for seeking care. This includes elderly patients, those with compromised immune systems, pregnant women, and anyone without a spleen. These populations face greater risks from tick-borne diseases and benefit from early intervention.

Don't wait for test results if symptoms suggest tick-borne illness. Early treatment dramatically improves outcomes and prevents progression to chronic disease. Blood tests for Lyme disease may remain negative for weeks after infection, making clinical diagnosis based on symptoms and exposure history critical for timely treatment.

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How our practice can help

Morningside's comprehensive approach to tick-borne disease prevention and treatment draws on expertise across multiple specialties. Our Family Medicine team provides frontline defense through prevention education, prompt tick bite evaluation, and evidence-based treatment protocols. We offer same-day appointments for tick removal and assessment, ensuring you receive care within the critical 72-hour window for preventive antibiotics when indicated.

Our Pediatric specialists understand the unique challenges of protecting children from tick-borne diseases. We provide age-appropriate prevention strategies, careful dosing of medications for young patients, and family education programs. Children generally respond excellently to treatment when infections are caught early, and our team ensures proper monitoring throughout the recovery process.

For patients experiencing persistent symptoms, our Rheumatology department offers specialized care for complex cases. Lyme arthritis can develop months after initial infection, causing significant joint pain and swelling. Our rheumatologists distinguish between ongoing infection and post-treatment inflammatory conditions, providing targeted therapies for lasting relief. We also manage cases of Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome, which affects 10-20% of treated patients.

Beyond individual treatment, we offer comprehensive tick-borne disease testing using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools. Our laboratory can identify multiple infections from a single blood sample, important given that ticks often carry more than one disease. We maintain close relationships with infectious disease specialists and can coordinate complex care when needed.

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Looking ahead with confidence

While 2025 presents unprecedented challenges with tick-borne diseases, knowledge and preparation remain your best defense. By understanding the risks, implementing prevention strategies, and seeking timely medical care, you can continue enjoying everything our beautiful city offers—from Staten Island's green spaces to the expanding parklands of Queens and Brooklyn.

Stay informed about tick activity in your favorite outdoor spaces. Check regional updates regularly for the latest information on disease patterns and prevention strategies.

Remember, ticks are a manageable risk, not a reason to avoid outdoor activities. With proper precautions, prompt response to bites, and access to excellent medical care, you can protect your family while still embracing all the adventures summer brings. The key lies in staying vigilant, acting quickly when needed, and partnering with healthcare providers who understand the unique challenges of tick-borne diseases in our urban environment.

As we navigate this record tick season together, Morningside Medical stands ready to support your family's health journey. From prevention education to complex treatment plans, we're here to ensure that tick-borne diseases don't stand between you and your summer plans. Stay safe, stay informed, and most importantly—keep enjoying the outdoor experiences that make life in New York City so special.

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References

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4. Columbia University Medical Center. (2025). Lyme Disease Research Program. Retrieved from https://www.cumc.columbia.edu/dept/pi/nyspi/LymeDisease/menumachine/lyme/navigation.html
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