Marshfield Clinic Research Institute warns of tickborne-illness risk in autumn

 While many people are ready to enjoy the cooler weather while hunting, hiking or pumpkin picking, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute research has shown an autumn surge of deer ticks, which transmit Lyme disease. That means being tick aware and taking preventive measures while outside this fall.

The Tick Inventory via Citizen Science (TICS) is an effort to identify ticks that are found in the Midwest. This information can be used to assess risk of encountering a tickborne disease and to learn more about who is being exposed to and diagnosed with tickborne diseases.

“Citizen-submitted ticks are one of the most valuable tools we have for tracking tick populations and the diseases they carry,” said Alexandra Linz, Ph.D., Marshfield Clinic Research Institute staff scientist. “Every tick sent in for research helps scientists build a more accurate picture of public health risks and strengthens our ability to protect communities.”

TICS was launched in 2024 under the leadership of Linz and current Sanford Research Senior Vice President and Research Scientific Officer Jennifer Meece, Ph.D. Since then, citizens have submitted more than 15,000 ticks for study. Originally just in Wisconsin, the study expanded to Bemidji, Minnesota, in 2025 and soon to Fargo, North Dakota.

The study’s first significant finding was published in a pre-print paper in May that showed more than half of deer ticks tested by researchers were found to carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease.

Small threat, big consequences

Deer ticks (also called black-legged tick), which may only be the size of a poppy seed, are commonly found in wooded areas and grasslands. They make contact as people brush past, latch onto their host and engorge in blood. In addition to Lyme disease, they can also transmit the pathogens causing anaplasmosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis and several more tickborne diseases.

“The deer tick’s small size and greater likelihood of carrying illnesses like Lyme disease is what makes it critical to perform tick checks after spending time in wooded or brushy areas,” Linz said. “Tick awareness is the first line of defense against tick-borne diseases. Understanding where ticks are found, how to avoid bites, and when to seek medical attention can significantly reduce the risk of illness for individuals and families."

Symptoms of illnesses resulting from a tick bite can include rash, fever, joint pain, and fatigue within several days to weeks. Contact your medical provider if you have these symptoms. Lyme disease doesn’t always result in the classic bullseye rash. Bring the tick in a small plastic bag to your provider, if possible.

Awareness and early recognition of symptoms are key to preventing serious disease. Tick populations and tick-borne illnesses have surged throughout the U.S. in recent years.

To reduce the risk of tick bites, spray the insecticide permethrin on clothing, sleeping bags, and tent fabric. Wear clothing that covers your skin. Finally, have someone help you check for ticks after time spent outdoors. 

Get your tick kit

For more information, or to request a pre-paid collection kit be sent to you, contact tics-MFLD@sanfordhealth.org or 1-715-389-7796 (extension 16462). Groups interested in having kits available for their visitors (such as parks and nature centers, vet clinics, libraries) also are encouraged to contact Marshfield Clinic Research Institute.

Once the tick, dead or alive, has been placed in the collection kit, just drop it in the mail to submit. Any tick found on people or pets is appreciated. Each kit will come with a unique identification number that people can use to look up, via an online dashboard, the species of ticks they submitted.

Tick Inventory via Citizen Science-Lyme Experience Narrative Study (TICS-LENS) is aimed at engaging individuals who have experienced Lyme or another tick-infection to tell their story. Anyone can share their story – a tick submission is not required. Responses will be anonymous, unless people want to share their contact information. Visit redcap.link/ticslens for more information.