Tick Surveillance Research in New England

The University of New Hampshire (UNH), in collaboration with other institutions in Northern New England, is embarking on a two-year project to establish a comprehensive tick surveillance system. Tick-borne diseases have become a significant concern in New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont, necessitating improved surveillance and management of tick populations and associated pathogens. With funding from the U.S. Geological Survey, researchers at UNH's NH Veterinary Diagnostic Lab (NHVDL) and Hubbard Center for Genome Studies (HCGS), along with partners at the University of Vermont and the University of Maine, aim to gather baseline data on tick species distribution, abundance, and pathogen presence across various vertebrate hosts.

The objectives of the project include conducting genomic sequencing to screen ticks found on different wildlife species in Northern New England for both known and new microbial pathogens. This data will inform future epidemiological studies, enabling targeted education and control efforts in high-risk areas. The project also aims to enhance public health efforts by serving as a warning system to veterinarians, pet owners, livestock producers, and the general populace. Collaboration with the Entomology Research Laboratory at the University of Vermont and the Tick Lab at the University of Maine Extension Diagnostic and Research Laboratory further expands the scope of research, including studying fungal colonization in ticks for possible biocontrol methods.

The NH Veterinary Diagnostic Lab (NHVDL) and the Hubbard Center for Genome Studies (HCGS) play key roles in the project. NHVDL provides diagnostic services to various state agencies and stakeholders, while HCGS is dedicated to advancing genomics research and understanding genome function. Additionally, the UNH Research Computing Center will manage and disseminate the data generated by the project. Overall, this collaborative effort aims to address the rising threat of tick-borne diseases in Northern New England through comprehensive surveillance, research, and public health initiatives.

Objectives:

1. Establish baseline data on tick species distribution, abundance, and pathogen presence across Northern New England.

2. Conduct genomic sequencing to screen ticks for both known and new microbial pathogens.

3. Inform future epidemiological studies on the spread of tick-transmitted diseases.

4. Enable targeted education and control efforts in high-risk areas.

5. Serve as a warning system to veterinarians, pet owners, livestock producers, and the general populace.

6. Study fungal colonization in ticks for possible biocontrol methods.

7. Manage and disseminate research data effectively through collaboration with the UNH Research Computing Center.