Male Ixodes Pacificus Tick
The most common ticks found in San Joaquin County are: the American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis;the Pacific Coast tick, Dermacentor occidentalis; and the Brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanquineus. The Pacific Coast tick is one of the most widely distributed ticks in California. Occasionally, the Western black legged tick, Ixodes pacificus is also found in the County. When collected, these ticks are tested for Lyme disease.
The District conducts surveillance for ticks in parks and river areas of the county that are known habitat for ticks. Surveillance for adult ticks is typically performed from the months of November to April when ticks are most abundant. Ixodes pacificus is the primary species targeted during surveillance due to its ability to carry Lyme disease. This tick is usually collected in Tracy area. Ticks are also submitted by local veterinary hospitals and the general public for identification and testing.
Lyme disease is a serious illness that if left untreated, can have severe long term complications. Initial symptoms of Lyme may include a spreading rash which may be accompanied by fever, aches and fatigue. Possible future complications of the heart and/or nervous system may occur, as well as severe arthritis.
