South Middlesex Times

Ticks remain active even during winter, according to Dina Fonseca, a tick biology expert at Rutgers University-New Brunswick. "Ticks don’t take a winter vacation, and as long as temperatures stay above freezing, they remain active and looking for blood," she stated.

Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration indicates that New Jersey experienced an average temperature of 42 degrees Fahrenheit in December 2023, which is notably above the freezing point of 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fonseca explained that "adult blacklegged ticks, also known as deer ticks, are active in late fall and winter." Unlike many insects and other tick species that become dormant or enter resistant stages like eggs during colder months, female blacklegged ticks continue seeking blood meals necessary for producing thousands of eggs.

These ticks pose more than just an annoyance; they can transmit various diseases such as Lyme disease bacteria, malaria-like protozoa, and deer-tick virus. Once infected, a tick remains so throughout its life stages and can potentially spread pathogens to each host it feeds on.

"We know adult blacklegged ticks are likely to be infected," Fonseca emphasized. She highlighted the need for public awareness: "Most people don’t realize that ticks are active year-round, not just in spring or summer. We want to change that mindset."

Fonseca advised taking precautions during winter outdoor activities:

- Educate your group about tick habitats like leaf litter.

- Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants tucked into socks.

- Stick to clear paths to avoid dense leaves where ticks may hide.

- Use Environmental Protection Agency-approved tick repellents.

- Check yourself and others for ticks after outdoor activities.

If bitten by a tick, prompt removal is crucial. For visibly engorged blacklegged ticks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends consulting a physician for doxycycline prophylaxis. Studies show this antibiotic does not discolor children's teeth.

Fonseca encourages sending found ticks to NJTicks4Science!, a citizen-led project tracking tick populations and diseases in New Jersey. Participants receive free testing results.

She also advises pet owners to consult veterinarians for preventive measures against ticks.