From LMAS
As temperatures rise across the U.P., so does the activity of ticks—small arachnids that can pose significant health risks to humans and animals. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), spring through early fall is peak tick season, with May through July being especially active months.
Ticks are commonly found in wooded areas, tall grasses, and leaf litter. The CDC reports that blacklegged ticks (also known as deer ticks) are of particular concern in Michigan, as they can transmit Lyme disease, and carry the most commonly reported tick-borne illness in the United States. Other diseases, such as anaplasmosis and babesiosis, have also been documented in the region.
State health officials emphasize that prevention is the most effective defense. Recommended precautions include using EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535; wearing light-colored long sleeves and pants when outdoors; and performing thorough tick checks after spending time outside. MDHHS also advises showering within two hours of coming indoors to reduce the risk of tick attachment.
“Tick awareness is essential for protecting yourself and your family,” said LMAS District Health Department Environmental Health Director Elizabeth Suggitt. “We encourage residents to take simple preventive steps—like using repellent, staying on clear trails, and checking for ticks on themselves and pets after outdoor activities. Early detection and removal can significantly reduce the risk of disease transmission.”
Proper tick removal is also critical. The CDC recommends using fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible and pulling upward with steady, even pressure. After removal, the bite area should be cleaned with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.
Residents are urged to monitor for symptoms following a tick bite, including fever, fatigue, muscle aches, or a rash—particularly the characteristic “bullseye” rash associated with Lyme disease. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
With outdoor recreation being a cornerstone of life in the Upper Peninsula, LMAS District Health Department stresses that awareness is key. By taking proper precautions, residents and visitors alike can safely enjoy the region’s natural beauty throughout tick season.
For more information about ticks, including how to identify and remove a tick, visit www.michigan.gov.
