Nebraska has been home to the deer tick since it was identified in 2019. Recently in 2026, higher numbers have been appearing due to a mild winter allowing the ticks to survive longer and in greater quantities. Carriers for the ticks such as deer and squirrels have also spread them further.
One of the sicknesses ticks carry is Lyme disease, a bacterial infection that causes rashes to the skin, heart problems, and joint swelling and pain. One of the first seen symptoms of Lyme is a red bull’s eye rash where the tick has been. Flue symptoms can follow, eventually leading up to more serious issues like irregular heartbeats and facial palsy.
At nymph stage, ticks are the size of a poppy seed and aren’t easily detected by people, resulting in bites. It is advised to avoid areas that are heavily wooded and high in leaf density and to treat clothing with bug repellent. To discourage ticks from coming indoors on pets, check animals thoroughly before letting them in. If a tick is found, removing it immediately is recommended by pulling up and out with tweezers. Everyone is urged to visit a physician if exposed or bit to ticks.
Nebraska state officials have reported an average of seven cases of Lyme disease a year. Nebraska is considered low risk until further studies can be done.
Some information courtesy of Panhandle Public Health District.
