This Isn’t Great, Lyme Disease Cases in Michigan Have Nearly Tripled

Every year, we say the same thing…ticks are getting worse in Michigan. Unfortunately, the numbers now prove it.

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Lyme disease cases have jumped quite a bit over the past few years. The state recorded 452 cases in 2020, and that number climbed to 1,215 by 2024. That’s a pretty big jump, and honestly, it lines up with what a lot of people are already noticing…ticks are just everywhere now.

Over the past year, I’ve been seeing more and more people on social media talking about dealing with Lyme disease after getting bitten by ticks. I don’t remember knowing anyone with it 20 years ago. Now, I know several people.

That’s gotta tell you something…we’ve got a problem.

See Also: Michigan Just Changed How You Check Burn Permits

Why Lyme Disease Cases Are Rising in Michigan

The biggest reason is pretty simple…ticks are sticking around longer.

They don’t just disappear when winter hits anymore. Health officials say ticks can be active anytime it’s above 40 degrees, so all those random warmer days we get now? Yeah…that keeps them going.

On top of that, our winters haven’t been as brutal, and the warmer seasons are lasting longer. That gives ticks way more time to do their thing…feed, spread, and multiply.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease You Should Watch For

Early symptoms can be easy to miss and often feel like something minor.

Early on, it can feel like nothing or just something minor…fever, headache, feeling run down, maybe a rash that sometimes looks like a bullseye.

But if it goes untreated, it can turn into something a lot worse. We’re talking joint pain, nerve issues, and in some cases even facial paralysis.

How to Check for Ticks and Reduce Your Risk

After spending time outside, check common areas where ticks like to hide. That includes behind your knees, under your arms, around your waist, and along your hairline.

If you find yourself scratching and feel something that kind of feels like a scab, check it right away…it could be a tick. That’s exactly what happened to me a few years ago.

If you find a tick attached, remove it carefully with tweezers and monitor for symptoms over the next several days.