This Tick-Borne Illness Is Rising In MI: What To Know

MICHIGAN — Health officials are warning Michiganders to protect themselves from tick bites as cases of Lyme disease increase across the state.

Lyme disease cases in Michigan have increased by 168 percent over the last five years, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Officials said there were 1,215 cases in 2024, which is up from 452 cases in 2020. Additionally, Anaplasmosis cases in Michigan have seen an almost fivefold increase over the last five years, with 82 cases in 2024 compared to 17 in 2020, officials said.

"Preventing tick bites is the best way to prevent tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease and anaplasmosis," Michigan Chief Medical Executive Natasha Bagdasarian said. "If you find a tick attached to your body, promptly remove it. Monitor your health, and if you experience fever, rash, muscle or joint aches or other symptoms, or if you suspect a tick has been attached for more than 24 hours, consult with your medical provider."

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is the most common tick-borne disease in Michigan. Anaplasmosis is the second most common tick-borne disease and cases are increasing, particularly in the northern parts of the state, officials said.

Both Lyme Disease and anaplasmosis are transmitted by Ixodes scapularis, which are better known as the blacklegged or deer tick. The blacklegged tick is well-established in parts of Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas and has been expanding its range over the years.

Officials said symptoms of tick-borne disease include fever or chills, rash, headache, fatigue and muscle aches, and typically show up one to two weeks after a tick bite. Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics can decrease the risk of serious complications.

Officials shared these tips to protect yourself from tick bites:

Avoid tick-infested areas.

• As ticks live in grassy, brushy and wooded areas, individuals should walk in the center of trails to avoid contact with overgrown grass, brush and leaf litter at trail edges.
• Dogs and cats can encounter ticks outdoors and bring them into the home. Talk with your veterinarian about the best tick prevention products.

Use insect repellent.

• Apply an EPA-registered repellent on exposed skin. Find a repellent product that is right for you.
• Treat clothes (especially pants, socks and shoes) with permethrin, which kills ticks on contact or buy clothes that are pre-treated. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying repellents.

Perform daily tick checks.

• Always check for ticks on yourself and your animals after being outdoors, including in your own yard.
• Inspect all body surfaces carefully and remove attached ticks carefully with tweezers.
• To remove a tick, grasp the tick firmly and as closely to the skin as possible. With steady, even pressure, pull the tick’s body upward and away from the skin. Cleanse the area with an antiseptic.

Bathe or shower.

• Bathe or shower as soon as possible after coming indoors (preferably within two hours) to wash off and more easily find ticks.
• Wash clothing in hot water and dry on high heat to kill ticks in clothing.