Originally from Eastern Asia, the longhorned tick is a serious pest of livestock in its native region. An aggressive biter, it frequently builds intense infestations on animals, causing stress, reduced growth, reduced production and blood loss. Because it can reproduce without a male, a single fed female tick can create a localized population. The longhorned tick is known to carry several viral, bacterial and protozoan agents of livestock and human diseases. It hasn’t yet been linked to any human infection in the U.S., but the N.C. Division of Public Health and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services are working to understand its distribution and monitor for diseases it may carry. 

Prior to its identification in New Jersey last fall, the longhorned tick was not typically found in the U.S. It has also been found in Arkansas, Virginia and West Virginia. It’s unknown how it arrived in this country from Asia. 

To prevent tick-borne illnesses, shower immediately upon returning home and check for ticks. While outdoors, wear clothing that covers the skin and use insect repellents. Veterinarians are asked to submit ticks they find on clinical patients to help track and identify tick populations in North Carolina. To participate in the study, contact Dr. Alexis M. Barbarin, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..