Ticks in Arkansas: Species, Diseases, and Prevention
Arkansas is home to several species of ticks that can transmit viral, bacterial, and protozoan pathogens to humans through tick bites. Understanding the different types of ticks, the diseases they may carry, and how to prevent tick-borne illnesses is important for Arkansas residents and visitors.
Common Ticks in Arkansas
The main tick species found in the state include:
Lone Star Tick
The lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum) gets its name from a single white dot on the back of adult females. It is very aggressive and abundant statewide from early spring through summer.
American Dog Tick
The American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis) is also widespread and frequently bites people in grassy and wooded habitats. Nymphs and adults active spring to fall can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF).
Gulf Coast Tick
The Gulf Coast tick (Amblyomma maculatum) occurs along Arkansas' southern border. It is capable of spreading Rickettsia parkeri rickettsiosis, a milder form of RMSF.
Brown Dog Tick
The brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) prefers to feed on dogs but sometimes bites humans as well. It can vector RMSF in Arkansas.
Blacklegged Tick
Though not yet widely established, the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) has been found in some areas of Arkansas. It is the primary carrier of Lyme disease in eastern and upper midwestern states.
Tick-Borne Diseases in Arkansas
Common illnesses spread by ticks in Arkansas include:
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF)
RMSF is caused by the bacteria Rickettsia rickettsii. American dog ticks, brown dog ticks and Gulf Coast ticks can transmit it through bites. Without treatment, RMSF can have severe complications or become fatal.
Ehrlichiosis
The lone star tick spreads ehrlichiosis through bites. The two main types in Arkansas are human monocytic ehrlichiosis (HME) and human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE) caused by the bacteria Ehrlichia chaffeensis and Anaplasma phagocytophilum.
Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness (STARI)
STARI produces a red, expanding "bullseye" rash similar to Lyme disease. It is associated with bites by the lone star tick but the infectious agent is still unknown.
Tularemia
Also known as “rabbit fever,” the bacterial infection Francisella tularensis may be spread by tick and deer fly bites, mostly in rural areas. It can cause flu-like illness with fever, chills, headaches, and muscle aches.
Protecting Yourself from Ticks
You can take these steps to prevent tick bites and tick-borne diseases:
- Wear EPA-registered insect repellent like DEET
- Treat clothing and gear with permethrin
- Wear long sleeves and pants in tick habitats
- Stick to trails when hiking and avoid high grass
- Perform tick checks after outdoor activity
- Shower soon after coming inside to wash off unattached ticks
- Talk to your vet about tick preventives for pets
Properly removing attached ticks within 24 hours also greatly reduces disease transmission risk. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick at skin level and pull straight up with steady pressure.
Signs of Tick-Related Illness
See your healthcare provider if you develop these symptoms after a tick bite:
- Rash or red spot, especially with fever or joint pain
- Flu-like symptoms like fever, chills, headache, fatigue
- Muscle or joint aches
- Swollen lymph nodes
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital for these bacterial diseases. Be sure to let your doctor know about any recent tick bites or time spent in wooded or grassy areas.
Protect Yourself from Ticks in Arkansas
Arkansas ticks can transmit debilitating illnesses. Avoid tick habitat when possible, use repellent and protective clothing, and do thorough tick checks after outdoor exposure. Recognizing tick species and the diseases they may cause will allow swift treatment if you are bitten.
FAQs
What is the most common tick-borne illness in Arkansas?
Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is the most common tick-borne disease. American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, and Gulf Coast ticks can transmit RMSF through bites.
When are ticks most active in the state?
Ticks are active when temperatures are above 45°F. In Arkansas, late spring through summer are peak activity times, but nice winter days also allow ticks to look for hosts.
Where are ticks found in Arkansas?
Ticks reside in grassy, brushy, and wooded habitats statewide. They wait on vegetation and latch onto passersby. Take precautions in parks, trails, and your own backyard.
Can pets bring ticks into my home?
Yes. After outdoor exposure, ticks can ride into your home on your pets. Conduct tick checks on pets after they have been outside, especially in tick habitats. Consider tick preventatives approved by your veterinarian.
What is the best way to remove an attached tick?
Use tweezers to carefully grasp the tick near its mouthparts and gently pull straight up with steady pressure to avoid leaving mouthparts under the skin. Avoid twisting or squeezing the tick’s body.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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