Fordham Tick Index

THE WEEKEND DEER TIcK INDEX

For the weekend of November 15 and 16 your
risk of being bitten by a deer tick is:

Questing Adult Deer Ticks
Photo by James Vellozzi

The Fordham Tick Index is an estimate of the risk of being bitten by a nymphal or adult deer tick. Both of these stages are active at this time of year, although the smaller nymph is responsible for many more cases of Lyme disease. This index measures risk relative to other times of year. For more information about preventing tick bites, controlling ticks, Lyme disease and other illnesses ticks carry, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

The Fordham Tick Index is provided as a weekly public service by Fordham University and is based on both current and historical data from one site in Westchester County, N.Y. It is an estimate only. Actual risk may vary geographically. Therefore, always take precautions to prevent tick bites when outdoors.

01 = Low risk.
Enjoy the outdoors, but take precautions.

05 = Moderate risk.
Ticks are fairly abundant. Use caution.

10 = High risk.
Limit exposure and use extreme caution. If you’re thinking of taking a hike, consider going to a movie instead.

TICK FACT OF THE WEEK

The winter tick, Dermacentor albipictus, can be so numerous on some hosts that they lose their fur. The term “ghost moose” refers to moose that are so heavily infested, the loss of hair makes them appear white. They also suffer from loss of body fat and blood, often dying in winter.

For more information, contact Thomas Daniels

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