Why Missouri's weather has led to a large surge in the presence of ticks

Why Missouri's weather has led to a large surge in the presence of ticks

If you've spent any time outdoors in Central Missouri recently, whether that be gardening or taking a walk, you've likely noticed a relentless, unwanted guest. Tick season isn't just in full swing; it is breaking records. Recent surveillance data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveal that weekly emergency room visits for tick bites across the Midwest have spiked to their highest levels since 2017. Right here at home, t…