Snowy Winter Leads to Early Tick Season Surge on Long Island, Raising Health Concerns
A severe winter with heavy snowstorms has led to an early and intensified tick season on Long Island, New York. The Middle Country School District has reported an increase in tick bites among students, prompting the district to begin spraying for ticks earlier than usual. Typically, spraying occurs in May, but due to the early emergence of ticks, it started in April this year. Dr. Andrew Handel from Stony Brook Children’s Hospital noted a significant rise in emergency room visits related to tick bites, marking the highest level in nine years. The snow from the winter created an insulating layer that allowed ticks to thrive by trapping warmth and humidity. While most tick bites do not result in medical issues, the early start to the season raises concerns about potential tick-borne infections. 
