The Weekend Deer Tick Index

September 29 through October 1, 2023

2 out of 10

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.

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.

Tick Fact of the Week

Adult blacklegged tick activity is generally limited to cooler seasons, but surveys in Mississippi last summer collected this stage in several areas of the state, something that’s never been reported before. Researchers noted the ‘engimatic’ finding calls for further work to understand this “sudden change in phenology”.  Sudden changes in age-old patterns are always worth watching.  

For further information, contact Thomas Daniels.