Ticks are a common concern for anyone spending time outdoors, especially in the Southeastern United States where wooded areas and tall grasses are abundant. These tiny arachnids feed on blood and can transmit various pathogens to humans and animals. Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is one of the most recognized illnesses associated with tick bites. Understanding the specific risks in a region like Tennessee is important for staying healthy while enjoying nature.
Lyme Disease Risk in Tennessee
While Lyme disease is a major concern in the Northeast and upper Midwest, Tennessee is generally considered a low-incidence state, though the risk is present. The bacteria that causes Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi, is primarily transmitted by the Blacklegged Tick (Ixodes scapularis), which inhabits Tennessee. In 2023, the state reported 39 confirmed and probable cases of Lyme disease, an increase from the 32 cases reported in 2022.
This relatively low number is due to the lower rate of infection in the local Blacklegged Tick population compared to high-incidence states, where over 50% of ticks may carry the bacteria. Most reported cases in Tennessee cluster in the middle and eastern divisions, particularly in northern counties bordering Kentucky and the northeast counties bordering Virginia and North Carolina. Although the overall risk is lower than in other parts of the country, the Blacklegged Tick population is expanding into the Southeast, making awareness of this disease a growing concern.
Dominant Tick Species in Tennessee
The most frequently encountered ticks in Tennessee are not the Blacklegged Tick, but two other more prevalent species. The Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum) is known for its aggressive feeding behavior and is widespread across the state. Female Lone Star Ticks are easily identified by a distinct white or silvery-white spot on their backs, while the males have streaked patterns.
Another common species is the American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis), which prefers grassy areas, fields, and low-lying brush. This tick is reddish-brown with grayish-white or silvery markings on its back shield. Although the Blacklegged Tick is present in wooded and brush-covered landscapes, its population density tends to be lower than the Lone Star and American Dog Ticks in many areas of Tennessee.
Other Tick-Borne Illnesses to Consider
Because the risk of Lyme disease is low, residents should focus on the tick-borne illnesses more common in Tennessee. Spotted Fever Rickettsioses (SFR), which includes Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF), is a highly reported tick-borne disease in the state. SFR is transmitted by the American Dog Tick and the Brown Dog Tick. Initial symptoms often include fever, severe headache, and a rash that typically begins around the wrists and ankles.
Ehrlichiosis is the second most reported tick-borne disease in Tennessee after SFR. This bacterial infection is transmitted by the Lone Star Tick. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue. Tennessee is one of the states with the highest reported incidence rates for Ehrlichiosis.
The Lone Star Tick also transmits Alpha-gal Syndrome (AGS), a unique condition causing a delayed allergic reaction to mammalian meat. AGS is triggered when the tick transfers a sugar molecule called alpha-gal into the bloodstream, causing the body to develop an antibody. Symptoms like hives, severe abdominal pain, and anaphylaxis can occur two to six hours after consuming beef, pork, lamb, or other mammal products. Tennessee is considered a hotspot for AGS.
Effective Prevention and Safe Removal
Minimizing exposure to ticks requires a multi-pronged approach combining chemical and physical prevention methods. Clothing and gear can be treated with Permethrin, which kills ticks on contact. For skin, repellents containing at least 20% DEET are effective and should be applied sparingly, avoiding the hands and face. When hiking, staying in the center of trails and avoiding overgrown grass or brush reduces the chance of picking up a tick.
After spending time outside, a thorough full-body check is important, paying close attention to the scalp, behind the ears, under the arms, and behind the knees. Showering within two hours can help wash off unattached ticks. Tumbling clothes in a dryer on high heat for at least 10 minutes will kill any lingering ticks.
If a tick is found attached, it must be removed promptly and correctly to minimize disease transmission, which increases significantly after 24 hours of attachment. The recommended method uses fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Pull the tick upward with steady, even pressure, avoiding twisting or jerking, which can cause the mouthparts to break off. After removal, clean the bite area and hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.