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Researchers Tackle Rising Tick Populations in Michigan

9/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reports rising black-legged tick populations in Michigan.
Michigan State University researchers are pursuing control methods.
White-tailed deer are a primary tick host, driving population growth.
Researchers test capsules filled with deer-attractive foods to monitor consumption.
If successful, the next phase adds a vaccine to immunize deer against ticks to cut human risk.

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Story summary

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reports rising black-legged tick populations in Michigan.
Michigan State University researchers are pursuing control methods.
White-tailed deer are a primary tick host, driving population growth.
Researchers test capsules filled with deer-attractive foods to monitor consumption.
If successful, the next phase adds a vaccine to immunize deer against ticks to cut human risk.