Key Points Summary on ‘Tick Carries Deadly Bacteria’:

• Connecticut confirms first U.S. case of longhorned tick with deadly bacteria.
• The tick carries Ehrlichia chaffeensis, which causes human monocytic ehrlichiosis (HME).
• HME symptoms start with fever and chills, then may lead to organ failure.
• Longhorned tick is invasive and native to eastern Asia.
• It reproduces without mating and feeds on multiple hosts.
• First tick found feeding on human in Connecticut in 2018.
• Officials warn of fast expansion and risk to pets, humans, and livestock.

Bacteria-Carrying Tick Found in Connecticut

Summer is approaching fast. Outdoor lovers in the eastern U.S. now face an alarming new threat. Connecticut officials just confirmed the country’s first case of the invasive longhorned tick carrying Ehrlichia chaffeensis.

This dangerous bacteria causes human monocytic ehrlichiosis—HME for short. It’s a potentially fatal disease that can begin with chills, fatigue, and high fever. A few weeks later, symptoms can escalate to nausea, confusion, and organ failure.

Not Your Average Tick

The disease has historically been linked to the lone star tick. That species is native to the U.S. and commonly found in the eastern and southeastern states.

But here’s the twist. The most recent case involved the Asian longhorned tick. It’s originally from eastern Asia—and now it’s here.

This tick has a terrifying skillset. It reproduces without mating and feeds without preference. That means it spreads easily—and bites anything that moves.

Growing and Spreading Fast

Dr. Goudarz Molaei of the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station said the first fully engorged longhorned tick was recorded in Fairfield County back in 2018. By 2020, full populations had been spotted in the same area.

Since then, the tick has been creeping into towns across Fairfield and New Haven Counties. Isolated samples have even popped up in New London and beyond.

And that’s bad news.

Dangerous For Humans and Animals

The longhorned tick’s reach is growing fast. Its ability to carry multiple pathogens—including those linked to Lyme disease—is raising red flags.

This isn’t just a threat to humans. Pets, livestock, and wildlife are also at risk. Officials are urging vigilance as the ticks become more common.

Experts Sound the Alarm

“This tick poses a growing public health risk,” Molaei said. He warned that its expanding territory could mean more cases of deadly disease in the future.

Connecticut officials are ramping up surveillance. But they admit that more must be done to stay ahead of this spreading threat.

What To Watch For

The early signs of HME are easy to miss. A high fever, chills, and fatigue may feel like the flu at first. But within days, the illness can spiral into something much more serious—especially without treatment.

Doctors urge anyone bitten by a tick to monitor symptoms and seek help immediately.

Outdoor Season Begins With a Warning

As families head outside this summer, experts want people to take ticks seriously. Wearing long sleeves, using repellent, and doing thorough tick checks are key.

Because with the longhorned tick now carrying Ehrlichia chaffeensis, the stakes just got a whole lot higher.