What you need to know about Larval ticks

As summer continues, so does an increase in larval tick activity. These tiny, newly hatched ticks are often hard to spot, but their impact can be significant. Here's what you need to know about larval ticks during the summer months.
Larval ticks are the first stage in the tick lifecycle, emerging from eggs in late spring and early summer. These six-legged larvae, often called "seed ticks," are typically less than 1mm (about 0.04 in). Despite their small size, they can transmit diseases to humans and animals.
Larval tick activity peaks during the summer, especially in areas with high humidity and dense vegetation. They tend to cluster in groups, waiting for a host to brush past them. Be cautious in areas with tall grass, leaf litter, or shaded vegetation, where larvae are most likely to be found.
Health Risks
Although larval ticks are less likely to transmit diseases compared to their nymph and adult counterparts, they can still carry pathogens like Borrelia miyamotoi, a sister bacteria to Lyme disease causing Hard-bodied relapsing fever and Powassan virus. 
If you find a larval tick attached to your skin, remove it promptly with fine-tipped tweezers. Clean the area with soap and water and monitor for any signs of illness. If symptoms develop, seek medical attention. Save the tick in a clean zip locked bag and submit for testing to the Tick Research Lab.  This service is free to PA residents.  Details can be found on their website, Lyme & Tick-Borne Disease Testing & Statistics | PA Tick Research Lab.