Tick-borne diseases are receiving increased attention at the national level.
On June 9, 2026, the House Appropriations Committee approved funding increases for Lyme disease research, Alpha-gal Syndrome initiatives, vector-borne disease programs, and other tick-borne disease efforts. While the legislation still awaits further action, the proposal represents one of the strongest signals yet that tick-related health concerns are becoming a growing priority.
Among the proposed increases:
• $10 million additional funding for NIH Lyme and tick-borne disease research.
• $1 million increase for CDC Lyme disease programs.
• $1 million increase for CDC vector-borne disease programs.
• $5 million for LymeX innovation initiatives.
Why does this matter?
Because ticks continue to expand their range throughout many parts of the United States, increasing encounters between people, pets, and ticks during everyday outdoor activities.
Whether you’re hiking, gardening, camping, hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying your backyard, tick awareness is more important than ever.
Research, surveillance, and public education all play critical roles in helping communities better understand tick activity and reduce risk.
But awareness starts at home.
Simple habits such as staying on trails, checking for ticks after outdoor activities, inspecting pets, and using trusted tick-repellent products can help make outdoor adventures safer and more enjoyable.
As lawmakers, researchers, healthcare professionals, and advocates continue working to address tick-borne diseases, families can do their part by making tick awareness a regular part of their outdoor routine.
The growing federal investment is a reminder that tick awareness isn’t just a regional issue anymore- it’s a national conversation.
Tick awareness starts before you step outside. Explore TickWise and make prevention part of your outdoor routine.
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