New invasive tick species located in Franklin County, Kansas, officials say
An exotic invasive tick species was located for the first time in Kansas last week.
The Asian Longhorned Tick was located on a dog in Franklin County last week, according to a press release from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
Ottawa, which is the county seat of Franklin County, is about a 35-minute drive, south, from Lawrence.
Asian longhorned ticks are small, light brown insects that are often smaller than a sesame seed, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection (USDA).
The tick can reproduce on its own, without a male tick, according to the press release.
According to the USDA, the ticks are native to Asia, Australia, New Zealand and western Pacific Islands. The tick was first identified in the U.S. in New Jersey in 2017, according to the press release.
Since its first occurrence in the U.S., the tick has spread west across the U.S., according to the press release. It has been identified in 21 states.
The ticks can transmit diseases such as ehrlichiosis and bourbon virus, both of which can also be transmitted by the Lone Star tick, according to the press release. In animals, it can cause severe anemia or exsanguination, as well as causing a cattle parasite.
To reduce the risk of disease, people should be aware of areas where ticks are located and use preventative measures when in grassy, brushy or wooded areas, according to the press release.
Additionally, people can wear long pants tucked into socks and shirts tucked into pants, according to the press release. EPA-approved repellents may also be used to prevent ticks.
Once inside, people should perform tick checks, especially under the arms, waistband, ears, belly button, back of knees and around the hair, according to the press release. Pets should also be checked for ticks.
Experts recommend showering after being outdoors.
To remove ticks, people should grab the tick near the skin with a pair of tweezers and pull outwards, according to the press release.
This story was originally published October 9, 2025 at 8:03 PM.
