Large increase in tick bites reported at hospitals across the US as spring warmth kicks in

Nature lovers beware: government officials are warning of an early increase in hospital visits due to tick bites in the U.S. so far this year.

As millions of Americans welcome the more regular spring warmth, people flock to the great outdoors to spend time outside.

This shift in temperatures also brings out animals and insects, including a higher risk of tick bites, as officials have noticed an increase in hospital visits.

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According to the CDC, the highest risk of being bitten occurs in spring and summer, and adult females are most likely to bite humans.

Different tick species are found in different regions of the U.S., according to experts. Most tick populations are found outside, in shaded areas.

Since the start of 2026, 131 people have visited the hospital for tick bites, compared with the first three months of 2025, when 102 people did so, according to CDC data.

If bitten by a certain tick, pathogens can spread and make people and animals seriously ill.

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A common tick found in 20 U.S. states is the Asian Longhorned tick, not typically found in the western hemisphere, but was first reported in the country in 2017.

"With ongoing testing of ticks collected in the United States, it is likely that some ticks will be found to contain pathogens that can be harmful to people," a statement from the CDC said.

There are various tick species spread through different states and regions of the country. Each type of tick bite packs a different punch of pain, along with short and long-term effects. 

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It is important to act quickly if you have been bitten and always take the necessary precautions before going outside to prevent ticks from latching onto your skin.

Taking a few extra safety precautions can help keep you and your family safe from ticks while spending more time outdoors this spring and summer:

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CDC experts suggest these actions if bitten by a tick: