Model predicts where ticks, Lyme disease will appear next in Midwest states. By drawing from decades of studies, scientists created a timeline marking the arrival of black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks, in hundreds of counties across 10 Midwestern states. They used these data - along with an analysis of county-level landscape features associated with the spread of ticks - to build a model that can predict where ticks are likely to appear in future years. Source 5i.
As Lyme disease progresses, it can cause severe tiredness, a stiff and painful neck, tingling or numbness in the arms and legs, or facial paralysis. The most serious symptoms of Lyme disease do not appear for weeks, months, or years after a tick bite.