Today’s Tick Risk in Alaska – Real-Time Forecast & Activity Map
Check your ZIP code for local tick activity, real-time risk levels, and prevention insights.
Built from CDC and NOAA data
Surveillance Insights
- Annual Lyme Cases
- No endemic Lyme; Imported cases only
- Based on CDC surveillance data
- Long-Term Trend
- Monitoring for establishment of non-native species
- Based on CDC surveillance data
- High Risk Zones
- Anchorage, Kenai Peninsula, Fairbanks, Southeast Alaska, Mat-Su Valley
Current Situation in Alaska
Alaska is on the frontline of changing tick dynamics. Historically, ticks were not a major concern for humans. However, the tick forecast for Alaska notes the presence of the "Hare Tick" and the "Winter Tick," and increasing reports of non-native ticks (like the American Dog Tick) being introduced on pets and travelers. The concern is that warming climates may allow these introduced species to establish populations. Currently, the risk of tick-borne disease acquisition within the state is considered very low, but surveillance is active.
Snapshot of the current tick situation in Alaska, based on regional surveillance data and seasonal activity patterns.
- Risk Level
- Moderate to High
- Peak Activity
- May - July
- Dominant Vector
- Hare Tick (Haemaphysalis leporispalustris)
Where Ticks Hide in Alaska
Ticks are most commonly found on wildlife (hares, moose, birds) and domestic pets. Grassy areas, brush, and trails used by wildlife are potential encounter sites. The Kenai Peninsula and Southeast Alaska (Tongass National Forest) have the mildest climates and highest potential for tick establishment.
Seasonal Activity Pattern
Activity is concentrated in the warmer months (May-August). The Winter Tick is active on moose during the cold months but does not typically bite humans. As winters warm, the window for tick survival and activity is widening.
Check Your Local Tick Risk
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Local Vector Analysis
Understanding which ticks are active in Alaska helps you identify threats and take appropriate precautions.
Good News for Alaska!
Alaska has no established populations of disease-carrying tick species. The native Ixodes angustus poses minimal health risk to humans.
Traveler Advisory: Check pets and gear after visiting tick-endemic states before returning to Alaska.
Alaska Native Tick (I. angustus)
Ixodes angustus
Appearance: Small, dark tick. Similar appearance to blacklegged tick.
Peak Season: Summer months
Habitat: On small mammals (squirrels, voles). Rarely encountered by humans.
Diseases: None confirmed in humans
Note: ✅ Native to Alaska. Minimal human health risk. Most common tick found on Alaskan wildlife.
Lyme Disease
Vector: Deer tick (Ixodes scapularis)
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted by deer ticks. If caught early, it's highly treatable with antibiotics. Left untreated, it can cause serious complications affecting joints, heart, and nervous system.
Early Warning Signs
- Erythema migrans (EM) rash - appears in 70-80% of cases
- Bullseye rash (circular red rash with clear center)
- Rash appears 3-30 days after bite
- Fever and chills
Progression & Symptoms
- Severe headaches and neck stiffness
- Facial palsy (loss of muscle tone on one or both sides of face)
- Arthritis with severe joint pain, especially knees
Prevention Strategies
The best way to avoid tick-borne diseases is to prevent tick bites in the first place. These strategies work together to create multiple layers of protection.
Permethrin-Treated Clothing
Permethrin is an insecticide that kills ticks on contact. When applied to clothing, it remains effective through multiple washes.
Daily Tick Checks
Since disease transmission typically requires 24-48 hours of attachment, finding and removing ticks quickly dramatically reduces infection risk.
Landscaping Defense
Creating a tick-hostile environment in your yard reduces the chance ticks will be waiting when you step outside.
Shower Within 2 Hours
Showering after outdoor activity gives you a chance to wash off ticks before they bite.
Tick Bite Protocol
Acting quickly and correctly is your best defense against infection.Follow these 6 critical steps.
Don't Panic
Most tick bites do not transmit disease, especially if removed quickly.
- Infection rates vary by region (20-50%)
- Transmission usually takes 24-48 hours
- Stay calm and use proper technique
Gather Tools
Use fine-tipped tweezers. Avoid fingers or chemicals.
- Fine-tipped tweezers are best
- Rubbing alcohol for cleaning
- Small container to save the tick
Grasp & Pull
Grasp close to skin and pull upward with steady pressure.
- Grab mouthparts near skin (not body)
- Pull straight up—don't twist
- Maintain steady, even pressure
Clean Area
Disinfect the bite site and your hands thoroughly.
- Wash with soap and water
- Apply rubbing alcohol
- Wash hands well
Save Tick
Keep the tick in a sealed container for potential testing.
- Seal in bag or container
- Label with date and location
- Bring to doctor if symptoms appear
Monitor (30 Days)
Watch for rash or flu-like symptoms for a month.
- Check for expanding rash daily
- Watch for fever or fatigue
- Seek care if you feel unwell
When does tick season end in Alaska?
Tick activity winds down after the first hard freeze, which in Alaska typically arrives around Sep 5. See the local first-frost window and city-by-city freeze dates.
Alaska first frost datesAlso worried about mosquitoes in Alaska?
West Nile virus, EEE, and the local mosquito season vary by state. Check your Alaska mosquito risk profile.
View Alaska mosquito forecastStay Safe in Alaska
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