As Warm Weather Persists, Kentucky Officials Urge Residents to Stay Tick-Aware

Officials are urging Kentucky residents to stay alert for ticks as warm weather continues, warning that ticks can be present in common outdoor environments where they can attach to people or animals. The notice comes from Hannah Tiffin of the University of Kentucky Extension Office, who said ticks are especially common in wooded areas and places with tall grass. Those are areas where ticks can latch onto passing hosts, including both people and pets, officials said. Tiffin’s comments were made as part of ongoing public health and extension outreach aimed at helping residents reduce the chances of tick attachment during outdoor activity. The guidance emphasizes that ticks can be encountered in everyday settings, not only in remote or heavily wooded locations. Officials also noted that tick activity typically increases during warm conditions, which can lead to more opportunities for exposure. With summer-like weather continuing, residents are being reminded to be mindful when walking or working outdoors, particularly in environments described as tick-prone. While tick awareness is a year-round concern, the current period of sustained warmth makes public messaging more urgent, officials said. The UK Extension Office’s outreach directs residents to remain attentive to outdoor surroundings and to consider tick risk when spending time outside. Anyone who believes they have been exposed to a tick is encouraged to follow guidance from health professionals or local public health officials for next steps. The UK Extension Office guidance is focused on prevention and awareness as Kentucky remains in a warmer stretch of weather.