Ticks

Tick Identification:

Ticks may carry diseases that cause illness in humans and animals. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) provides tick identification at no charge to Michigan citizens. Ticks may also be identified electronically by submitting photos.

From May to September the St. Clair County Health Department participates in the Vector Borne Disease Surveillance and Prevention Program. During these months, St. Clair County residents may submit a tick photo to vector@stclaircounty.org. Photos must be clear and recognizable to health department staff. The photo must show the tick's full back for proper identification. Once the photo has been identified, a staff member will contact you by phone or email with specifics regarding the species identified.

Download our Tick Identification Card Here

There are two types of ticks found within St. Clair County:

How to Safely Remove a Tick:

Tick Bite Prevention: 

• Use an EPA approved repellent containing no more than 30 percent DEET.
• Use repellents that contain permethrin on clothing.
• Perform a tick check after being in tall grasses or wooded areas.
• Use a tick preventative on pets.

Lyme Disease:

Lyme Disease is a bacterial infection transmitted by the Blacklegged (Deer) Tick. If you are bitten by a tick submit a photo for identification and notify your primary care physician. See your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of fever, rash, body aches or fatigue after a tick bite.

Visit Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Lyme Disease for more information.

Additional Resources:

• Michigan Department of Health and Human Services: Emerging Diseases
• Tick Identification and Submission in Michigan
• Tick Bite and Lyme Disease Prevention in Michigan