Study suggests some ticks can survive indoors for up to 3 weeks

A new Ohio State University study found that two medically and veterinary important tick species, the Gulf Coast tick and the lone star tick, can survive indoors on common household flooring for far longer than many people may assume, in some cases up to about three weeks. In the Journal of Vector Ecology study, researchers tested tile, vinyl, wood, and both short- and long-pile carpet, and found Gulf Coast ticks generally survived longer than lone star ticks on most surfaces, while lone star ticks lasted longer on long-pile carpet. The finding adds quantitative evidence to a familiar concern in practice: ticks brought inside on pets, clothing, or gear may remain a bite risk after the outdoor exposure has ended. (phys.org)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the study strengthens the case for routine tick prevention and more specific client counseling. Ohio State researchers said the goal is to reinforce that ticks carried into the home by pets or people can still pose a risk indoors, supporting recommendations such as year-round preventives where appropriate, careful tick checks after outdoor activity, and practical advice like brushing pets, using a lint roller, bagging clothes, or putting them in the dryer after exposure. That message lands as tick-borne disease pressure continues to rise in the U.S., and as practices field more questions from pet parents about whether a tick dropped in the home is still a concern. (vet.osu.edu)

What to watch: Expect this study to show up more often in client education, parasite prevention conversations, and regional tick-risk messaging as spring and summer caseloads build. (vet.osu.edu)