Will 2026 Be One of the Worst Tick Seasons Ever? Experts Say Maybe

We know this is not the news you want to hear if you have children or pets, particularly if they spend time in heavily wooded areas.

But it’s important to know that data is pointing to 2026 being one of the worst tick seasons in recent memory, and experts are warning families to take extra care in protecting their kids and pets.

Here’s what you need to know, and how you can get rid of ticks in the yard during one of the worst seasons ever.

Emergency Department Visits are On The Rise

The CDC recently reported that emergency department visits for tick bites increased by more than 25% in April 2026 compared with the previous April.

In most parts of the country, weekly rates of ER visits for tick bites are the highest for this time of year since 2017.

"Tick season is here, and these tiny biters can make you seriously sick. The good news is you have options to help prevent tick bites when you spend time outdoors,” said Alison Hinckley, PhD, epidemiologist and Lyme disease expert with CDC's Division of Vector-Borne Diseases

“These simple steps can go a long way in protecting you and your family from diseases spread by ticks. And if you develop a rash or fever in the days to weeks after a bite, or after being in an area with ticks, seek medical care promptly."

Lyme Disease Cases are Also on the Rise

The CDC also reported that cases of Lyme disease have been on the rise in the U.S., particularly in the Northeast, Upper Midwest, and parts of the West. 

State health departments reported more than 89,000 cases of Lyme disease across the US in 2023, which was unfortunately the last year this data was made available– and this only includes the reported cases. There are some health experts who estimate that as many as 500,000 people in the U.S. get Lyme disease every year.

At the same time, some parts of Canada are seeing spikes of 70% or more in health units reporting cases of Lyme disease linked to tick bites.

Why the Surge?

Increased temperatures are creating more feeding opportunities and more reproduction, which in turn is leading to more ticks. This is increasing the sheer volume of ticks, which is leading to more bites.

However, that’s not all! Longer warm seasons mean tick season is also growing longer. This season is typically somewhere in between April and October. However, warmer temperatures mean this season can both start sooner and run longer.

It also means we’re seeing ticks and tick bites in areas where they have never been a problem before, which means Tick Country is getting larger and safe zones are getting smaller.

How To Control Ticks in Your Yard to Protect Your Kids & Pets

Experts recommend protecting yourself and your children by:

• Using a registered insect repellent 

• Treating shoes and clothing with effective repellent products

• Performing frequent tick checks

• Removing attached ticks as quickly as possible

Of course, your pets don’t wear clothes. So, what is the safest flea and tick control for dogs and cats? If you want to take real action towards reducing the tick population in your yard, Mosquito Hero offers a tick control service to eliminate these pests from your property and prevent further tick activity.

“I love this company. Great customer service and results. Using a Mosquito Hero program means I can enjoy being outside all summer and it also protects my dog.” 5-Star Google review.

You can start by finding a Mosquito Hero location in your area right now.