LoneStarMapTickborne illness • Explainer
Southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI)
Southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI) can develop after a bite from the Lone Star tick. Its most recognized sign is an expanding, sometimes bull's-eye-shaped rash around the bite, occasionally with mild flu-like symptoms. STARI is not Lyme disease, and its exact cause has not been established. Any rash after a tick bite should be evaluated by a licensed clinician.
Last reviewed: July 20, 2026 · Educational only — not medical advice.
The short version
- Follows some Lone Star tick bites.
- Main sign: an expanding, sometimes bull's-eye-like rash at the bite.
- May include mild fatigue, headache, fever, or muscle aches.
- It is not Lyme disease, and its cause is not established.
How the STARI rash looks
The rash is typically a red, expanding circle that can resemble a bull's-eye, appearing at the site of the bite within about a week. It looks similar to the Lyme disease rash, which is one reason a clinician's evaluation matters — the look alone can't confirm the cause.
STARI vs. Lyme disease
STARI is linked to the Lone Star tick, which is not considered a Lyme vector, whereas Lyme is spread mainly by blacklegged (deer) ticks. The rashes can look alike, so knowing which tick bit you — and where you were — helps your clinician. When in doubt, seek care.
When to see a healthcare professional
See a licensed clinician for any rash that develops after a tick bite, or if you have fever, spreading redness, or feel unwell. Save a photo of the tick and note the date and location of the bite to help with evaluation.
Frequently asked questions
Is STARI the same as Lyme disease?+
No. STARI is associated with the Lone Star tick, which is not considered a Lyme vector, while Lyme is spread mainly by blacklegged (deer) ticks. The rashes can look similar, so a clinician should evaluate any post-bite rash.
How is STARI treated?+
Because the cause isn't established, care is guided by a clinician and may include antibiotics in some cases. Only a licensed professional can evaluate and manage a rash after a tick bite.
How soon does the STARI rash appear?+
The expanding rash typically appears within about a week of the bite. Watch the bite area and see a clinician if a rash or other symptoms develop.
Sources used
- Tickborne Diseases of the United States (STARI)CDC
Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness (STARI) follows some Lone Star tick bites; cause not established and it is not Lyme disease.
- Where Ticks LiveCDC
The Lone Star tick is widely distributed in the Northeast, South, and Midwest U.S.
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Southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI)
STARI is an expanding rash that can follow a Lone Star tick bite. Learn how the STARI rash looks, how it differs from Lyme disease, and when to see a doctor. Educational, not medical advice.