Tick Season Returns to North Alabama: What to Know and How to Stay Safe

With warmer weather settling into North Alabama, ticks are becoming more active—bringing an increased risk of tick-borne illnesses. Health officials say conditions in the Southeast allow ticks to thrive longer throughout the year, making prevention especially important.

Jasmine Kennedy with the Alabama Department of Public Health says illnesses like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and ehrlichiosis are among the most common in the region, and early symptoms can resemble the flu but may become severe if left untreated.

Dr. Meredith Schrader, an entomologist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, adds that ticks are not just a concern for people and pets—they also play a role in the ecosystem, serving as a food source for birds and other wildlife.

Experts recommend simple precautions when spending time outdoors: wear long sleeves and pants, use insect repellents containing DEET, stay on well-traveled trails, and check your body for ticks after being outside.

More information on tick-borne diseases and prevention is available through the Alabama Department of Public Health at alabamapublichealth.gov.

You can also explore an interactive tick activity map from the University of Rhode Island’s Tick Encounter Resource Center at tickencounter.org.