Tick bites surge in US and UK as climate and habitat shift

Tick bites are rising in the US and UK due to climate-driven expansion of tick habitats and suburban land-use changes, with Lyme disease cases up in both regions. Practical prevention includes performing regular tick checks after outdoor activity, showering to wash off unattached ticks, and removing any attached tick with fine-tipped tweezers within 24 hours; save the tick for potential testing and seek medical advice for possible antibiotic prophylaxis if bitten. Additional tips include using repellents, wearing protective clothing, landscaping to reduce tick habitat, and consulting a clinician if symptoms develop in the weeks after a bite; pet owners should also check animals for ticks.