04/29/2026
🚨 TICK WARNING FOR DELAWARE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS SEASON 🚨
As more people head outside for warmer weather, Delaware officials are warning residents to stay alert and protect themselves from tick bites and tick-borne illnesses.
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) and the Delaware Division of Public Health say ticks are active year-round ,not just in the summer , and are commonly found in wooded, brushy, and grassy areas across the state.
While most ticks don’t pose a serious risk, a few species are responsible for the majority of bites to humans, including:
• Blacklegged tick (also known as the deer tick)
• Lone star tick
• American dog tick
⚠️ NEW CONCERN THIS YEAR
Officials have confirmed Delaware’s first detection of Powassan virus in a tick , a rare but potentially serious illness that can affect the brain and nervous system.
Though cases are uncommon, health experts say this highlights the importance of prevention and early detection.
🦠 WHY THIS MATTERS
Ticks in Delaware can carry diseases such as:
• Lyme disease (most common)
• Anaplasmosis
• Ehrlichiosis
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Powassan virus (rare but severe)
Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, headaches, and in some cases more serious complications if left untreated.
🛑 HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
Before heading outside:
• Use EPA-registered insect repellent
• Wear long sleeves and pants when possible
While outdoors:
• Stay in the center of trails
• Avoid tall grass and brush
After you come inside:
• Check yourself, children, and pets for ticks
• Shower as soon as possible
• Wash and dry clothes on high heat
⏱️ QUICK ACTION CAN MATTER
If you find a tick, remove it as soon as possible using tweezers. The risk of disease transmission increases the longer a tick remains attached.
💡 BOTTOM LINE:
Ticks are here, active, and not just a summer problem. A few simple steps can significantly reduce your risk while still enjoying the outdoors.
📚 SOURCES:
* Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) – Tick Program
* Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH)
* Delaware Health and Social Services (DHSS)
* Delaware Vector-Borne Disease Surveillance Report
* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC