Tick Bite Research Study
Researchers at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital and Stony Brook University are conducting a study on a tick-transmitted infection for children who were recently bitten by a tick.
Fast Facts
Children/Youth Who Have Experienced a Tick Bite Within The Past 14 Days
3-17
Years Old
Compensation
Provided Up To $50
Conducted Virtually
Study Background
We are working to better understand how a common tick-related bacterium may affect children.
Tick bites are very common, especially in areas like Long Island. Some ticks carry bacteria that can lead to illness, but not all germs found in ticks are well understood. One of these bacteria, called Rickettsia amblyommatis, is frequently found in lone star ticks, yet researchers are still learning whether it causes symptoms in people.
This study is focused on children who have recently had a tick bite. By collecting small blood samples and tracking any new symptoms over time, researchers hope to learn more about how this bacterium may impact health. The information gathered may help improve how tick-related illnesses are identified and managed in the future.
Study Background
We are working to better understand how a common tick-related bacterium may affect children.
Tick bites are very common, especially in areas like Long Island. Some ticks carry bacteria that can lead to illness, but not all germs found in ticks are well understood. One of these bacteria, called Rickettsia amblyommatis, is frequently found in lone star ticks, yet researchers are still learning whether it causes symptoms in people.
This study is focused on children who have recently had a tick bite. By collecting small blood samples and tracking any new symptoms over time, researchers hope to learn more about how this bacterium may impact health. The information gathered may help improve how tick-related illnesses are identified and managed in the future.
Additional Information
This study is being done to learn whether a common bacterium found in ticks can make children sick and how it may affect their health.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Aged 3-17 years old
- Experienced a tick bite within the past 14 days
- Reside in Suffolk or Nassau County, New York
- No known history of Rocky Mountain spotted fever
- Did not receive a dose of doxycycline (antibiotic) following the tick bite
- Unable to undergo study procedures, including blood collection
- Child’s primary caregiver is comfortable speaking, reading, and writing in English
- You will complete an initial visit by phone or video, where we ask about your child’s health and the tick bite
- A small blood collection kit will be mailed to your home with instructions
- You will collect a small blood sample and send it back to the study team
- You will receive short surveys by text or email a few times each week to report any symptoms
- About one month later, you will complete a second visit and collect another small blood sample
- If your child becomes sick during the study, the team may help coordinate medical care
Yes, participants will receive compensation for taking part in the study up to $50. All study activities can be completed from home, so no travel is required.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.