Tick season is lasting longer than usual, and health officials are warning Long Islanders to remain vigilant as the holiday season approaches.
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald says ticks are expected to remain active through Thanksgiving and potentially into early December.
“The tick season starts earlier and lasts longer. As we look at this year, you’re going to see ticks through Thanksgiving and maybe into early December down here. So it’s one of those things where you’ve got to be vigilant,” McDonald said.
McDonald says rising temperatures are contributing to the extended tick season, allowing ticks to remain active later into the season.
Health officials are reminding residents to take precautions when spending time outdoors, even as temperatures cool and the holiday season gets underway.