LoneStarMapNew Jersey • Emerging
Lone Star Ticks in New Jersey: Map, Risk, and Prevention
Lone Star ticks have been reported across much of New Jersey.
Are Lone Star ticks found in New Jersey?
New Jersey is within or near the broader Lone Star tick range, with reports in parts of the state. Lone Star ticks have been reported in parts of this region. Awareness levels vary by county, and activity is typically highest during may – september.
Why New Jersey residents should be aware
Awareness is growing among NJ outdoor and family communities.
Peak tick season in New Jersey
May – September. Plan extra prevention during these months — repellent, permethrin-treated clothing, and daily tick checks for kids and pets.
Alpha-gal awareness in New Jersey
A Lone Star tick bite has been associated with alpha-gal syndrome — a delayed allergy to mammalian meat — in some individuals. Read the alpha-gal guide.
Symptoms to watch for after a bite
Most tick bites do not lead to illness. Still, watch for these signs in the days and weeks after a known or suspected bite, and contact a licensed medical professional if anything below appears:
- Expanding rash or red ring at the bite site
- Fever, chills, or unexplained fatigue
- Muscle or joint aches
- Hives, swelling, or stomach pain 2–6 hours after eating red meat
- Difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis (call 911)
- Any new, unusual reaction in kids or pets
This list is educational and not exhaustive. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional.
Prevention checklist for New Jersey
- Use EPA-registered repellent (DEET, picaridin, OLE)
- Treat clothing and gear with permethrin
- Avoid tall grass and leaf litter
- Wear long socks and tucked-in pants in high-risk areas
- Shower within two hours of being outside
- Tick-check kids, pets, and yourself daily in season
What to do after a bite in New Jersey
Follow the step-by-step tick bite action plan and contact a medical professional if symptoms develop.
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New Jersey tick & alpha-gal FAQ
The questions New Jersey residents search for most.
Are Lone Star ticks in New Jersey?+
Yes — New Jersey is within or near the broader Lone Star tick range. Reports vary by county, and activity is generally highest during may – september.
When is tick season in New Jersey?+
Peak Lone Star tick activity in New Jersey is typically May – September. In warmer parts of the state, ticks can be active longer into the year.
Can I get alpha-gal syndrome from a tick bite in New Jersey?+
Alpha-gal syndrome has been associated with Lone Star tick bites in regions of New Jersey. Not every bite causes AGS. If you develop hives, swelling, stomach pain, or other reactions 2–6 hours after eating mammalian meat, talk to a licensed medical professional.
How do I report or identify a tick I found in New Jersey?+
Save the tick in a sealed bag with a moist paper towel, take a clear photo, and contact your state health department or a university extension program. Some accept ticks for identification or testing.
What should I do after a tick bite in New Jersey?+
Remove the tick with fine-tipped tweezers, clean the area, save a photo, and note the date and location. Watch for symptoms over the following weeks and contact a medical professional if a rash, fever, fatigue, or food reaction develops.
Compare with other states
Lone Star tick range, peak season, and awareness vary across the U.S.