Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 16, 2026
07:21
Tick Microbiome Characterization by Next-Generation 16S rRNA Amplicon Sequencing
Published on: August 25, 2018
13.6K
Why are the ticks winning, and what can we do about it?
1Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3156 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO 80521, United States.
Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases
|March 14, 2026
Summary
Tick-borne illnesses are increasing in the U.S. due to expanding tick populations. A comprehensive national strategy with sustained investment is crucial for effective tick bite prevention and control.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Entomology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Human illnesses from tick bites are increasing nationwide.
- Expanding geographic ranges of vector ticks like the blacklegged tick and lone star tick contribute to this rise.
- Current tick bite prevention and control methods are insufficient.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline a national strategy for tick bite prevention and vector-borne disease control.
- To identify key areas requiring investment and research.
- To emphasize the need for a coordinated approach to mitigate rising tick-borne illnesses.
Main Methods:
- This is a perspective paper outlining a proposed national strategy.
- It synthesizes current challenges and proposes future directions.
- It includes "take home messages" and conclusions for a concise overview.
Main Results:
- Existing prevention and control measures have not curbed the increase in tick bites.
- A multi-faceted national strategy is proposed as a blueprint for solutions.
- Sustained investment is identified as essential for success.
Conclusions:
- Addressing the growing problem of tick-borne diseases requires significant, sustained investment.
- Key efforts include stimulating industry innovation, intensifying research, establishing local support structures, and strengthening the workforce.
- Failure to act means accepting rising tick-borne illnesses as a permanent public health issue.
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