Wisconsin Officials Remind Residents Tick Risk Persists
State health experts caution that ticks remain active throughout the fall and winter whenever temperatures stay above freezing.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Allergies
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Is it necessary to maintain tick-prevention measures during the fall and winter months?
Wisconsin health officials are warning residents that tick exposure remains a year-round concern across the state as long as temperatures remain above freezing. This reminder follows a record-breaking year for Lyme disease cases in Wisconsin in 2024.
Why it matters
Because Lyme disease is endemic to every county in Wisconsin, maintaining vigilance against tick bites during colder months is essential for preventing illness. Ticks continue to pose a risk in environments like leaf piles even as seasonal temperatures drop.
Wisconsin reported a record number of Lyme disease cases during 2024, confirming the disease is endemic in all counties. While tick testing kits like Lyme Alert can identify bacteria in 15 minutes, health officials warn a negative result does not rule out human infection.
The players
Erin Dawicki
She is a physician associate who developed an at-home tick testing kit called Lyme Alert.
The details
Residents are advised to wear long sleeves and light-colored clothing, with pants tucked into socks, while performing tick checks on themselves and pets after outdoor activities. Physician associate Erin Dawicki has introduced the Lyme Alert at-home kit to detect bacteria in removed ticks, though experts emphasize this does not replace clinical diagnosis.
Timeline
October 30, 2026: Health experts issued a warning regarding persistent tick activity.
2024: Wisconsin recorded a record number of Lyme disease cases.
Fall and winter months: Ticks remain active whenever temperatures stay above freezing.
Health Landscape
This advisory extends the concerns raised by the record-setting infection numbers observed in 2024 by emphasizing that the risk now extends into late-season months. By focusing on off-season activity, officials aim to counter the historical tendency to ignore tick safety during colder weather.
Residents should continue performing thorough tick checks on themselves and their pets after spending time outdoors, regardless of the calendar date. Individuals should prioritize clinical evaluation over at-home testing kits, as negative results from these kits do not guarantee the absence of infection.
The takeaway
Ticks remain a viable threat in Wisconsin whenever temperatures are above freezing, especially in areas with leaf litter. Practicing protective clothing habits and consistent skin checks remains the most effective strategy for year-round Lyme disease prevention.
Further reading
For more information on preventing tick-borne illnesses, visit the Wisconsin Allergies section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WWIS Radio.
Live Poll
Is it necessary to maintain tick-prevention measures during the fall and winter months?
