Lyme Disease on the Rise: What West Michigan Should Know

Lyme disease isn’t often discussed. but in West Michigan, the number of cases has doubled, and in some areas, even tripled, over the past five years. Experts believe they have identified the cause behind this rise.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is mainly spread to humans through bites from infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. Common symptoms include a “bull’s-eye” rash, fever, fatigue, and joint pain.

Lyme disease can be effectively treated with antibiotics, but if it goes untreated, it may result in serious complications such as arthritis, heart problems, and neurological issues.

Ticks usually need to be attached for 24 to 48 hours to transmit Lyme disease bacteria, which is why it’s crucial to check for ticks after spending time in wooded or grassy areas during the warmer months.

Read More: Measles Exposure Alert Issued in Michigan

Early detection is crucial. If you notice a bull’s-eye rash, feel fatigued, have a fever or headache, or notice swollen lymph nodes, seek medical attention promptly. If Lyme disease is diagnosed late, it can cause severe joint pain and swelling, facial paralysis, heart palpitations, and nerve pain.

What’s Behind West Michigan’s Lyme Disease Surge?

According to WOOD-TV, Lyme disease cases in Kent County have surged dramatically over the past five years. In 2020, there were 30 reported cases, and by 2025, that number had risen to nearly 220. The Kent County Health Department reports this as a 237% increase.

The health department attributes the rise in cases to a surge in Michigan’s tick population. With warmer temperatures lasting longer, ticks have more time to reproduce and spread, increasing their contact with both animals and humans.

Get our free mobile app

Tick season is approaching, making it important to protect both your pets and yourself. Be sure to check pets regularly if they spend time outdoors, and do the same for yourself.

While we can’t control the tick population, we can take precautions, always check for ticks after walking through tall grass or wooded areas, gardening, or even playing in leaf piles. Wearing long pants, tucking in your shirt, and checking areas like your armpits, behind your knees, around your waist, and along your sock line can help reduce your risk.

👇BELOW: 8 Ways to Protect Yourself and Your Pets from Ticks👇