As the realities of climate change become increasingly impossible to ignore, its effects are proving to be far more wide-reaching than previously imagined. One of the less publicized but deeply concerning consequences of climate change is the expanding prevalence of Lyme disease-bearing ticks in Michigan. 

Previously, these ticks were largely relegated to the northeastern United States. However, Lyme disease is now spreading throughout the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, posing a significant public health challenge that we cannot afford to overlook. Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also known as the Ixodes tick. Concerningly, Michigan has seen a dramatic rise in cases over the past several years. A study by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services in March of this year showed an expansion of Lyme disease into nearly every county of Michigan.

So, what is causing this Lyme disease explosion? It’s important to recognize that climate change is directly influencing this phenomenon. Largely driven by rising global temperatures, these ticks are now able to better survive and thrive in areas of Michigan previously too cold. Milder winters and longer warm seasons have allowed ticks to expand their range, bringing Lyme disease to more areas within our state. The warmer temperatures and increased humidity create ideal conditions for ticks to flourish. In areas of northern Michigan where harsher winters effectively curbed tick populations, we now see significantly milder conditions that allow ticks to survive and grow in number. Looking at the 2023-2024 winter season, many regions of Michigan had around half the snowfall seen in previous seasons. As a result, many Michiganders are now grappling with what to do about it.

In areas of Michigan newly affected by Lyme disease, the lack of awareness and experience among the public and healthcare providers can lead to delayed diagnoses and more severe health effects. Lyme disease typically presents with flu-like symptoms, including fever, fatigue, and muscle aches, but can progress to significant joint infections, facial nerve paralysis or Bell’s Palsy, and even heart rhythm abnormalities if left untreated.

Lyme disease can have a lasting impact on quality of life, leading to significant healthcare costs and economic burdens for all Michiganders. Additionally, the Ixodes tick can carry other disease-causing bacteria, such as Anaplasma and Babesia, which have equally negative health impacts.

Addressing this growing threat requires a concerted effort on multiple fronts. First, more expansive public health campaigns must be rolled out to educate Michigan communities about the risks of Lyme disease and the importance of preventive measures. Simple tasks such as using appropriate insect repellent, wearing protective clothing and socks, and performing regular tick checks can help prevent tick bites and Lyme disease. 

 Second, Michigan’s healthcare providers need to be alerted to the expanding range of Lyme disease bearing ticks and reminded on how to recognize and treat Lyme disease effectively and promptly to prevent complications. Just last week in my clinic, while working with medical trainees, we removed a tick from a patient in clinic while doing an exam. Unbeknownst to the patient, the tick had been embedded in his back- he couldn’t recall the last time he had been in the woods! Even more concerning was the lack of awareness from the medical trainees about the potential need for preventive Lyme disease coverage in this situation. This knowledge gap emphasizes the need for further education and awareness. 

Moreover, we must confront the root cause—climate change itself. This entails state and local cooperation to reduce outdated and dirty fuels and transition to clean energy sources that are homegrown. Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power need to be supported and expanded.

Michigan must continue to invest in and support environmental conservation efforts and provide incentives to make these efforts possible.

We can also continue to expand our commuting options, encouraging carpooling, and improving public transit to be cleaner and more sustainable. Michigan businesses and organizations can prioritize these efforts like Ann Arbor Public Schools recently did in converting their school bus system to electric.

The expansion of Lyme disease in Michigan underscores the complex and interconnected nature of climate change’s impacts on our planet and our health. It is a stark reminder that climate change is not a distant threat but a present reality with tangible consequences. By caring for our environment and climate, we care for ourselves and help create healthier and safer communities.

Brittany Tayler, MD, FAAP, is an assistant professor in the Michigan State University (MSU) Charles Stewart Mott Department of Public Health, MSU-Hurley Children’s Hospital Pediatric Public Health Initiative, and Alice Hamilton Scholar in the MSU Master of Public Health program.

September 3, 2024