Kentucky ranks No. 15 for ticks and tick-borne illnesses

KENTUCKY (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – New data shows Kentucky is one of the nation’s worst states for ticks and tick-borne illnesses.

A new report from Terminix, based on 2024 tick control service data, ranks the top 25 states dealing with the highest tick activity. Experts say warm weather, high humidity, and plenty of green space create ideal breeding conditions — with the Northeast also reporting high tick populations.

California, Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, and New York lead the list, while Kentucky comes in at number 15.

Health officials are reminding Kentuckians to check themselves, children, and pets for ticks after being outdoors and to use repellent to help prevent disease.