Ticks in NJ: Rising Lyme Disease Cases and What You Need to Know

Ticks have become more than just a seasonal annoyance in New Jersey—they are now a year-after-year public health concern affecting families, pets and outdoor enthusiasts across the state. As tiny as a poppy seed in their earliest stage, these arachnids often go unnoticed, yet they can transmit serious illnesses, most notably Lyme disease. With 2024 data confirming continued widespread incidence across nearly every county, awareness and prevention are essential.

Understanding the Threat

Ticks are not insects, but arachnids—relatives of spiders and mites. They feed on blood and can carry pathogens that affect humans and animals alike. In New Jersey, the most common species include the black-legged (deer) tick, lone star tick and American dog tick. Of these, the deer tick is the primary vector for Lyme disease.

New Jersey consistently ranks among the states with the highest Lyme disease rates in the country. In fact, thousands of cases are reported annually, and experts believe the true number may be significantly higher due to underreporting and misdiagnosis. 

2024 Lyme Disease Cases by County

According to the New Jersey Department of Health’s 2024 surveillance data, Lyme disease continues to impact the counties most relevant to Central and North Jersey readers. Reported confirmed and probable cases include:

• Hunterdon County: 602 cases 

• Somerset County: 353 cases 

• Middlesex County: 362 cases 

• Morris County: 611 cases 

• Union County: 109 cases 

• Mercer County: 347 cases 

• Warren County: 418 cases 

• Essex County: 161 cases 

• Sussex County: 433

These numbers represent reported cases only; public health experts emphasize that actual infections may be far higher, as Lyme disease is often underdiagnosed or unreported. 

Why Lyme Disease Is Increasing

Several factors are contributing to the steady rise in Lyme disease cases. Climate patterns, including warmer winters and longer growing seasons, have created ideal conditions for ticks to thrive. Expanding suburban development also places more people in close contact with wooded and grassy habitats where ticks live.

Studies suggest that a significant percentage of ticks in the Northeast carry Lyme-causing bacteria, increasing the likelihood of transmission after a bite. Once infected, individuals may experience symptoms such as fatigue, fever, joint pain and the classic bull’s-eye rash. If left untreated, Lyme disease can progress to affect the nervous system, heart and joints.

Everyday Exposure: Closer Than You Think

Contrary to popular belief, most tick exposures occur close to home—not deep in the woods. Ticks thrive in leaf litter, tall grass and shaded yard edges. Children playing outside, pets moving between indoors and outdoors, and routine yard work all increase exposure risk.

This makes prevention not just an outdoor activity strategy, but a household priority.

Smart Prevention Strategies

While no method guarantees complete protection, consistent habits can significantly reduce risk:

• Wear light-colored clothing to spot ticks more easily 

• Use EPA-approved repellents or natural alternatives such as lavender, peppermint or lemongrass oils 

• Tuck pants into socks when walking in grassy or wooded areas 

• Perform full-body tick checks after outdoor activity 

• Shower within two hours of coming indoors 

Creating a tick-safe yard can also make a meaningful difference. Remove leaf litter, keep grass trimmed and establish buffer zones—such as cedar mulch borders—between lawns and wooded areas. Many homeowners also turn to natural or organic tick control services to reduce tick populations without harsh chemicals.

What To Do After a Tick Bite

If you find a tick attached to your skin, prompt removal is critical. Use fine-tipped tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure. Avoid twisting or squeezing.

After removal:

• Clean the area thoroughly 

• Wash hands with soap and water 

• Monitor for symptoms for several weeks 

• If symptoms such as rash, fever or fatigue develop, seek medical care. Early treatment with antibiotics is highly effective and can prevent long-term complications.

Support, Resources and Ongoing Action

New Jersey offers a strong network of support for those affected by Lyme disease. The Lyme Disease Association, headquartered in the state, provides education, advocacy and research funding.

Healthcare institutions such as Rutgers University, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and Hackensack Meridian Health continue to lead advancements in diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

Legislative efforts are also underway. New Jersey now requires Lyme disease education in school health curricula, helping to raise awareness among younger generations and promote lifelong prevention habits. 

A Collective Responsibility

Ticks—and the diseases they carry—are now part of the New Jersey landscape. But with knowledge comes power. Simple, consistent prevention measures can dramatically reduce exposure and protect both individuals and communities.

A guiding reminder worth keeping in mind: If it is predictable, it is preventable.

As you step outside this season—whether gardening, hiking or simply enjoying your backyard—take a moment to protect yourself. Awareness today can prevent illness tomorrow.

For information about protecting your lawn from ticks, contact Jennifer Molzen at 908-612-4736, email [email protected] or visit ticktackler.com. See ad, page 27.

Visit NaturalAwakeningsCNJ.com for more information about the tick invasion in New Jerson and how to protect yourself and loved ones.