The Lone Star Tick Is Invading New Jersey And It’s Time To Be Extra Careful

I hate ticks. There, I said it. They're bad right now in New Jersey.

Out of all the bugs and creepy crawlies we deal with during a New Jersey spring and summer, ticks are at the very top of my "absolutely not" list. Lately, it seems like they're everywhere.

My husband is a bug guy for a living, and he's been warning me for weeks that Lone Star ticks are already out in force across New Jersey. According to him, they're showing up earlier, they're active, and they're becoming a bigger problem than many people realize.

I don't want to scare anyone, but I do want to help. Because these little pests are sneaky.

Many times, what looks like a speck of dirt on your leg turns out to be a tick. They're tiny, easy to miss, and unfortunately very good at hitching a ride home with you after spending time outdoors.

And if you're anything like my daughter, you know exactly what I'm talking about. She's constantly asking, "Can you check my head? What's this?" More times than I'd like, it's a tick.

Every parent knows that feeling of seeing one and immediately getting the chills.

Why Lone Star Ticks Are Such A Concern

Unlike some tick species that wait quietly for a host to brush past them, Lone Star ticks are known for being aggressive.

They're often found in grassy areas, wooded trails, parks, backyards, and even around the edges of neighborhoods where deer and other wildlife travel.

The scary part is how small they can be, especially in their younger stages. They're easy to overlook until they've already attached themselves.

Many people don't even realize they're carrying one until hours later.

Check Yourself Every Time You Come Inside

One of the best habits you can develop is doing a quick tick check after spending time outdoors.

Pay special attention to:

• Hair and scalp
• Behind the ears
• Under the arms
• Around the waist
• Behind the knees
• Around socks and shoes
• Neck and clothing seams

Parents should also make it a routine to check children after outdoor play, especially if they've been running through grass, woods, or parks.

Don't Forget Your Pets

Dogs are especially good at bringing ticks into the house. After walks, hikes, or time spent in the yard, give your pets a quick inspection.

Check around:

• Ears
• Neck
• Collar area
• Between toes
• Under legs
• Belly and tail areas

A few minutes of checking can save a lot of trouble later.

Simple Ways To Protect Yourself

The good news is there are several easy ways to reduce your chances of getting bitten.

Wear The Right Clothing

When possible:

• Wear light-colored clothing
• Tuck pants into socks when hiking
• Wear closed-toe shoes
• Avoid walking through tall grass

Light-colored clothing makes it much easier to spot ticks before they attach.

Use Tick Repellent

A quality insect repellent can help keep ticks away when you're spending time outdoors.

Follow label directions carefully and choose products appropriate for children when needed.

Shower After Being Outside

Taking a shower after outdoor activities can help wash away ticks before they have a chance to attach.

It's also a great opportunity to do a full body tick check.

Keep Your Yard Maintained

Ticks love places where they can hide.

Keeping grass trimmed, removing leaf piles, and maintaining landscaping can make your property less attractive to ticks.

They're Gross, But Awareness Helps

I know this isn't the most pleasant topic. Trust me, I get it. Just talking about ticks makes me want to check my legs. But being aware is one of the best ways to stay protected.

The Lone Star tick is becoming a bigger part of life here in New Jersey, and a quick check after spending time outdoors can make all the difference.

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So before you sit on the couch, jump in the car, or let the dog run through the house, take a minute and look closely.

Because tick season is here, and those little guys are already making themselves at home.