What tick is responsible for transmitting Lyme disease in New Jersey?

The blacklegged tick, known scientifically as Ixodes scapularis, is the primary vector responsible for transmitting Lyme disease in New Jersey. This species thrives in wooded and grassy areas, making it a common concern in regions where human habitation overlaps with tick habitats.

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which the blacklegged tick carries. When the tick feeds on a host, it can transmit this bacterium into the bloodstream, leading to Lyme disease in the individual bitten.

Understanding the role of the blacklegged tick in the transmission cycle of Lyme disease emphasizes the importance of monitoring tick populations and practicing prevention methods, especially in endemic areas like New Jersey. This knowledge is critical for pest control professionals and public health efforts focused on reducing Lyme disease risk in the community.