04/20/2026
Ticks are active in Michigan from April to September, with high-risk areas in the Upper Peninsula and western Michigan. The blacklegged tick, which carries Lyme disease, has expanded its range across most of the state, with cases surging nearly 300% in some counties. Key, common species include the American dog tick and lone star tick.
Common Ticks and Diseases:
Blacklegged Tick (Deer Tick): Primary vector for Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Powassan virus.
American Dog Tick: Prevalent in Michigan, can carry Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Tularemia.
Woodchuck Tick: Known to transmit the Powassan virus.
Lone Star Tick: Aggressive biter that can cause a red meat allergy.
High-Risk Areas and Prevention:
Locations: Wooded areas, brushy spots, and tall grass.
Prevention: Use repellent containing DEET or Picaridin, and treat clothing with 0.5% permethrin.
Safety Check: After outdoor activity, check for ticks in areas like the scalp, underarms, and behind knees.
Removal: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull steadily upward.
Lyme disease cases in Michigan jumped from 553 in 2022 to 2,167 in 2025. The 2026 season is expected to be as active or worse, with increasing, consistent risk across the state.
