Tick Bites Are Up: Affordable Testing at Champlain Medical

• Emergency room visits for tick bites are at their highest levels in years, with the Northeast leading the country.
• Lyme disease and anaplasmosis are the most common tick-borne illnesses in Vermont, and both are very treatable when caught early.
• Champlain Medical offers prompt, affordable tick bite evaluation and testing in South Burlington, often at a fraction of the cost of an ER visit.

Tick season is in full swing across Vermont, and this year is a busy one. National tracking shows emergency room visits for tick bites at their highest rates in years, with the Northeast seeing the most activity of any region. Here in the Burlington area, that means more families finding ticks after hikes, yard work, and evenings outside. Our urgent care clinic in South Burlington sees the results firsthand, and the good news is that most tick bites can be handled quickly, calmly, and affordably.

The two most common tick-borne illnesses in Vermont are Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, both spread by the blacklegged tick. Symptoms usually appear between three and 30 days after a bite and can include an expanding rash, fever, fatigue, joint pain, and muscle aches. Because early symptoms often feel like the flu, it helps to see a provider promptly. Patients who visit Champlain Medical for walk-in care or ongoing primary care can be evaluated the same day, no appointment needed.

Cost is on a lot of minds this summer. Some patients have reported surprisingly large bills after emergency room visits for tick bites, and it is fair to ask about testing prices before care begins. At Champlain Medical, we believe in straightforward pricing, and our team will walk you through testing options and costs up front. Whether you come in on your own or through your employer's occupational medicine program, you can contact our team with pricing questions at any time.

When to Seek Care After a Tick Bite

Most tick bites do not lead to illness, and you do not need a doctor to remove a tick. Remove it promptly with fine-tipped tweezers, clean the area, and watch for symptoms over the next 30 days. If you develop a spreading rash, fever, chills, or unusual fatigue, come see us. In some situations, a single dose of preventive antibiotics may be appropriate if the tick was attached for an extended period, and our providers can help you make that call.

Affordable Testing and Treatment, Close to Home

When testing is appropriate, it does not have to strain your budget. Both Lyme disease and anaplasmosis respond well to a short course of an inexpensive, generic antibiotic when caught early. Our clinic on Kennedy Drive offers tick-borne illness testing at a significantly lower cost than many large labs and hospital settings, with results and treatment plans handled by providers who live and work right here in this community.

Found a tick or feeling off after time outdoors? Contact Champlain Medical or walk in Monday through Friday, 8am to 4pm.

FAQs

Do I need to go to the ER for a tick bite?

Usually not. Most tick bites can be evaluated at urgent care, and many need only prompt tick removal and monitoring at home.

How much does Lyme disease testing cost?

Costs vary widely by location and insurance plan. Our team reviews testing options and pricing with you before care begins, so there are no surprises.

What are the early signs of Lyme disease?

Watch for an expanding rash, fever, fatigue, joint pain, or muscle aches within three to 30 days of a tick bite. Call your provider if symptoms appear.