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As Ohioans head outdoors to enjoy hiking, camping, gardening and other warm-weather activities, they are facing a growing health concern: ticks. Experts report that tick populations are increasing across Ohio in 2026, continuing a trend that has accelerated over the past decade. The rise in tick numbers has also led to an increase in tick-borne diseases, making awareness and prevention more important than ever.
Ohio is home to several medically significant tick species, including the blacklegged tick -- also known as the deer tick, the American dog tick, the Lone Star tick, the Gulf Coast tick and the Asian longhorned tick. Of these, the blacklegged tick is the primary carrier of Lyme disease, the most commonly reported tick-borne illness in the state.
Researchers at The Ohio State University report that blacklegged ticks are now established in all 88 Ohio counties. In recent years, Ohio has experienced a significant increase in Lyme disease cases, a trend linked to expanding tick populations and greater human contact with tick habitats.
One of the most concerning ticks spreading across Ohio is the Lone Star tick, which is associated with alpha-gal syndrome. After being bitten, some people develop an allergy to a sugar molecule called alpha-gal that is found in red meat and other mammal-derived products. Symptoms may not appear until several hours after eating foods such as beef, pork, lamb or venison, making the condition difficult to diagnose. Reactions can range from hives and stomach pain to severe, potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis. As Lone Star ticks continue to expand their range, health experts urge residents to take precautions against tick bites and seek medical advice if they experience unusual allergic reactions after consuming red meat.
Ticks thrive in wooded areas, tall grass, brushy fields and leaf litter, but they are increasingly found in parks, suburban yards and neighborhood green spaces. Southeast and eastern Ohio often experience particularly high tick activity, although residents throughout the state should remain vigilant.
Tick bites are often painless, allowing ticks to remain attached and feed unnoticed. Symptoms of tick-borne illnesses can include fever, fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, joint pain and skin rashes. Lyme disease is commonly associated with a bull's-eye rash, though not every infected person develops this symptom. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent more serious complications.
Fortunately, several simple steps can reduce the risk of tick bites. When outdoors, wear long sleeves, long pants and closed-toe shoes. Light-colored clothing can make ticks easier to spot, and insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin provide additional protection. After spending time outside, perform thorough tick checks on yourself, children and pets.
If a tick is found attached to the skin, remove it promptly with fine-tipped tweezers by grasping it close to the skin and pulling upward with steady pressure.
As summer 2026 progresses, understanding where ticks live, recognizing the risks they pose and practicing prevention can help Ohio residents enjoy the outdoors safely.
Clay Hansell is an agricultural specialist for the Washington County Soil and Water Conservation District.