New bacteria strain linked to spotted fever discovered in rabbit ticks; human threat currently low.

Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst found a new bacteria strain in rabbit ticks in Maine, related to spotted fever. While rabbit ticks rarely bite humans, there's concern the bacteria could spread to other ticks. Currently, the threat to humans is low, with only 34 cases of spotted fever reported in Maine from 2014-2024. Experts advise using tick repellent and long clothing when outside and checking for ticks after being outdoors.