The deer tick can remain active in its adult stage from fall to spring as long as the temperature is above freezing. The tick will remain alive, but inactive when temperatures are below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Maine CDC saw increased numbers of tickborne disease reports in 2013, including multiple cases with onset of symptoms as late as December and the first documented case of Powassan encephalitis in the state since 2004. Providers should continue to consider tick borne illnesses, even during the winter months.
For more information, see the update from Dec. 18 at http://go.usa.gov/ZpAG
