Released this week, the Companion Animal Parasite Council’s 2026 Pet Parasite Forecast includes models that predict what veterinary teams will see in 2026. At 94% percent accuracy, they are an early warning system for both veterinary and public health. The Forecast projects continued geographic expansion of Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis and heartworm risk across the United States, including growth in areas once considered low or moderate risk.
Source: PR Newswire, Companion Animal Parasite Council, March 23, 2026. Link. Vector-borne disease risk continues to expand and not in straight lines. Land use changes, pet travel, wildlife dynamics, and climate-driven shifts are accelerating how and where these diseases spread.
<Parasite> risk is no longer static. And prevention strategies can’t be either.” -Kathryn E. Reif, MSPH, PhD
Also see:
- 30-day parasite forecast mapsat PetDiseaseAlerts.org: monthly county-level projections
- Daily flea forecasts at PetDiseaseAlerts.org: real-time flea activity displayed across the United States
INSIGHTS: Reviewing the CAPC projections is an important discussion for veterinary teams to maintain a consistent prevention message locally, especially in popular vacation areas. Messaging that reinforces the One Health connection between pets, people and the environment is also important.
Related: Fleas, ticks and <mosquitoes> already emerging, Pet Age, March 19, 2026. Link.