Tickborne Diseases
Tickborne diseases are caused by infectious agents transmitted by tick bites. Individuals who have been bitten by a tick may not feel it, it is important to check for ticks after spending time outdoors. If a tick is found attached to skin, it may have fed and transmitted an infectious agent. If a tick is attached to an individual's skin, remove it and tell a healthcare provider about recent tick bite.
More information about vector-borne diseases, prevention, and disease surveillance data for Allegheny County can be found in the green button below.
Vector-Borne Diseases and Data in Allegheny County
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread to people through the bite of blacklegged ticks. More information can be found at the CDC website.
Anaplasmosis
Anaplasmosis is a disease caused by the bacteria Anaplasma phagocytophilum primarily spread to people by the bite of an infected tick. More information can be found on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website.
Other Tickborne Diseases
Other tickborne diseases in Allegheny County and reported cases include babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, and Powassan.
Tickborne Disease Prevention
While ticks are most active in warmer months (April through October), they can emerge any time temperatures are above freezing. Prevention measures include avoiding wooded and brushy areas, using repellants with DEET for skin or permethrin for clothing and shoes, showering after being outdoors, checking for ticks, and removing ticks as soon as possible.
Resources on Lyme and other Tickborne Diseases
Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
PA Department of Health (includes information for schools and camps)
PA Department of Environmental Protection
Allegheny County Health Department Vector Control Program