New Missouri Data Shows Surge in Tick-Related ER Visits

I've heard anecdotal stories from my many friends in Missouri about the tick problem in the state, but now I'm seeing multiple data sources confirming it's true. Data shows that tick bites and related emergency room visits are growing around the state.

I will admit that I tend to be very hesitant to pass along anything related to diseases. Forgive me for being cynical, but I really need to see proof that a sickness or a disease is a problem before I will pass it along. I've heard many online talking about tick bites in Missouri being so serious this year that there have been an increase in ER visits. Today, I found data from the state of Missouri and also a county health department saying it's true. Here's what Stone County shared just a couple weeks ago on social media.

There's also new data from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services that says there is an upward trend in tick bites in Missouri, but the fact that there is better disease recognition and reporting practices that play a part in that.

The third bit of confirmation comes from the Centers for Disease Control which shows tick bite-related diseases are skyrocketing. The Midwest region including Missouri is second only to the northeastern states when it comes to those seeking health care in an ER connected to Alpha Gal and other diseases deriving from tick bites.

I think the fact that we're now in the warm weather months is playing a part, too. When there are more of us in Missouri that are in wooded areas adventuring, you're going to see more human/tick interactions. Just be aware that this year is worse than most when it comes to these nasty little pests causing more than just an irritating bite mark to deal with.