The Deadlier Bug Is a Tick — So Why Are Health Agencies Chasing Mosquitoes?

Executive Briefing

• Reveals 90% of U.S. vector-borne disease cases stem from ticks, yet only 10-11% of local health agencies conduct any tick control.
• Reports Lyme disease cases have more than doubled in a decade, with roughly 500,000 Americans treated annually.
• Highlights Alpha-gal syndrome risk after a New Jersey pilot died following a tick-induced red meat allergic reaction in 2024.
• Identifies climate change and deer population growth as key drivers pushing ticks into new northern and western territories.
• Suggests deer-targeted vaccines and rodent immunization programs as more viable solutions than hunting or individual repellent use.