North Carolina urges residents to combat tick and mosquito diseases
In 2024, there were more than 900 cases of tick and mosquito borne illnesses reported statewide.
With April being Tick and Mosquito Awareness Month the NCDHHS is announcing the return of the 'Fight the Bite' campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of vector-borne diseases. 'Vector-borne diseases are on the rise in North Carolina,' Public Health Veterinarian, Emily Herring said. 'We encourage all North Carolinians to protect themselves from tick and mosquito bites by wearing long sleeves and pants, using EPA-approved repellents, and checking for ticks after spending time outdoors.'
Students in grades K-12 were invited to submit educational posters for the annual campaign contest. NCDHHS, local health departments and K-12 schools will use these illustrations to educate residents about measures they can take to protect themselves. Winners will be announced at the end of April on the NCDHHS 'Fight the Bite' webpage.
There are many different tick-borne diseases including Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease that can cause fever, headache, rashes, flu-like illness and other symptoms that can be severe. Lyme disease accounted for 33 percent of all tick-borne diseases reported in 2024, and Ehrlichiosis, which is similar to Lyme disease, accounted for 38 percent of all tick-borne illnesses in 2024.
These diseases are able to be treated with antibiotics, and if treated early on can prevent severe illnesses from developing. See your health provider as soon as possible if you feel sick after being bitten by a tick.
Here are ways to reduce tick exposure:
Use an EPA-approved repellent, such as those containing DEET or picaridin, on exposed skin and treat clothing with a pesticide called permethrin (0.5%). Use caution when applying insect repellent to children.
Check yourself and your children for ticks if you have been in a tick habitat and remove them promptly.
Reduce tick habitats around your house with selective landscaping techniques such as pruning shrubs and bushes, removing leaf litter and keeping grass cut short.
Here are ways to reduce exposure to mosquitoes:
Use an EPA-approved mosquito repellent, such as those containing DEET or picaridin, when outside. Use caution when applying to children.
Consider treating clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks and tents) with 0.5% permethrin.
Install or repair screens on windows and doors and use air conditioning if possible.
'Tip and Toss' to reduce mosquito breeding: empty standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires and birdbaths at least once a week.
Talk with your primary care provider or local health department if you plan to travel to an area where exotic mosquito-borne diseases occur and always check your destination to identify appropriate prevention methods, including vaccines.
For more information on tick- and mosquito-borne diseases in North Carolina, please visit the NCDHHS Vector-Borne Diseases webpage.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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