A previously rare tick species first identified in the United States in 2017 has now established itself across over two dozen states, raising concerns among health officials about its potential to spread disease. The rapid expansion of its range suggests the tick may be adapting to new environments, though researchers continue to study its impact on public health. With no known natural predators in many of these areas, its growing presence could increase exposure risks for both wildlife and humans. Experts are monitoring its spread closely as they assess the need for updated prevention measures.
Since first being discovered in the U.S. in 2017, the tick has spread to more than two dozen states.
