What to Know About Tick Borne Diseases

Ticks are tiny, blood-feeding parasites that can carry harmful bacteria, viruses, and other germs. When they bite and feed, they may pass these germs into the human body—potentially leading to illness. 

Tick-borne diseases are becoming more common across the U.S., especially during warmer months when ticks are most active. The good news? Many of these diseases are preventable and treatable, especially when caught early. 

What you should know 

You don’t need to memorize every tick-borne disease or know exactly what kind of tick bit you. What matters most is understanding that ticks can sometimes carry germs that make people sick—and knowing how to respond if symptoms appear. 

For example, Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne disease in the U.S., and another condition called Alpha-gal Syndrome can cause an allergic reaction to red meat and other animal products after a tick bite.  

While most tick bites don’t lead to illness, paying attention to how you feel after spending time in grassy, wooded, or brushy areas can help you catch symptoms early. 

Know the signs 

Tick-borne diseases can cause symptoms anywhere from a few days to a few weeks after outdoor exposure—even if you don’t remember being bitten. 

According to the CDC, common early symptoms include: 

• Fever or chills  
• Fatigue, muscle aches, or headache 
• Rash near the bite that may look like a bull’s-eye (red outer ring with a lighter center) or appear as small red or purple spots that spread or hives 
  

Examples of tick bite rashes.

If you notice a rash, you can draw a circle around it and check daily to see if it changes. Taking photos can help you and your provider track it. 

Because these symptoms can feel like the flu at first, they’re easy to overlook. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to how you're feeling after spending time outdoors.  

Stay safe with a few simple steps  

The best way to lower your risk of tick-borne disease is by taking a few simple precautions—especially if you're spending time outside where ticks live. 

Cover up in tick-prone areas 
Wear long sleeves, tall socks, and pants in wooded areas, tall grass, or leaf litter. Choose light-colored clothing so ticks are easier to spot. 

Use EPA-registered insect repellents 
Look for products with active ingredients like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Always follow the directions on the label. 

Shower soon after coming indoors 
Showering within two hours of being outdoors can reduce your risk of Lyme disease and may help prevent other tick-borne illnesses. It can wash off ticks that haven’t yet attached—and gives you a good chance to check your body. 

Do a tick check 
After spending time outdoors, check your entire body for ticks—including underarms, behind the ears, inside the belly button, behind knees, between legs, hair (especially dark colored hair), and around the waist. Don’t forget to check pets and gear too. 

Marathon is here to help 

If you or a member of your family has been feeling unwell after a tick bite—or after time spent outdoors—don’t wait. 

Reach out to your Marathon Health provider to talk through symptoms, ask questions, or get care. Early treatment can make a big difference—and we’re here to help you stay safe and well. 

Schedule an appointment today.

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