Asian longhorned ticks confirmed in Butler County, Ohio, raising disease risks across 24 counties.

The Asian longhorned tick has been confirmed in Butler County, Ohio, expanding its presence to 24 counties. Ticks remain active year-round in Ohio, with Lyme disease cases reported monthly. Multiple species, including blacklegged, American dog, lone star, Gulf Coast, and Asian longhorned ticks, can transmit diseases like Lyme, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, alpha-gal syndrome, and rare illnesses such as Powassan virus. Health officials urge prevention through protective clothing, repellents, permethrin-treated gear, avoiding brushy areas, checking people and pets after outdoor exposure, and submitting ticks for testing. Medical attention is advised if symptoms develop.