The Fordham Tick Index is an estimate of the risk of being bitten by a nymphal or adult deer tick. Both of these stages are active at this time of year, although the smaller nymph is responsible for many more cases of Lyme disease. This index measures risk relative to other times of year. For more information about preventing tick bites, controlling ticks, Lyme disease and other illnesses ticks carry, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
The Fordham Tick Index is provided as a weekly public service by Fordham University and is based on both current and historical data from one site in Westchester County, N.Y. It is an estimate only. Actual risk may vary geographically. Therefore, always take precautions to prevent tick bites when outdoors.
01 = Low risk.
Enjoy the outdoors, but take precautions.
05 = Moderate risk.
Ticks are fairly abundant. Use caution.
10 = High risk.
Limit exposure and use extreme caution. If you’re thinking of taking a hike, consider going to a movie instead.
TICK FACT OF THE WEEKIxodes ovatus, an Asian species of tick not known to be especially important in transmitting disease agents to people, has been found with Borrelia garinii, one of the bacteria that cause a form of Lyme disease. This tick may be growing in importance as a vector in Asia. For background on the Tick Index, see:
“What We Talk About When We Talk About Ticks”
For further information, contact Thomas Daniels
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