Modern York State Warns of Increased Tick Activity and Tick-Borne Illnesses

As warmer weather arrives, New York State health officials are urging residents and visitors to accept precautions against ticks and the diseases they carry. Increased tick activity poses a serious health risk, and understanding preventative measures is crucial for protecting both humans and pets.

Understanding the Threat of Tick-Borne Diseases

Ticks can transmit a variety of diseases, including Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis, according to the New York State Department of Health. These illnesses can cause a range of symptoms, from fever and fatigue to more severe complications if left untreated.

Tick Surveillance and Identification

The New York State Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Conservation are actively monitoring tick populations across the state. Crews conduct “tick drags” – dragging fabric across forested areas – to collect ticks for testing. These ticks are then sent to the Wadsworth Center, the state’s public health laboratory, to identify the bacteria they carry and determine the potential for disease spread. These drags are conducted at least 150 times during the spring and summer months.

Preventative Measures: Protecting Yourself and Your Family

State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald recommends several key steps to minimize the risk of tick bites:

• Wear Protective Clothing: When venturing into wooded or grassy areas, wear long pants, preferably light-colored to make ticks easier to spot.
• Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
• Tick Checks: Thoroughly check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks after spending time outdoors.
• Proper Tick Removal: If you find a tick attached to your skin, remove it carefully with tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin’s surface as possible.

What to Do If You Find a Tick

If you are bitten by a tick, it’s important to remove it promptly and correctly. Use tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking the tick, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin. After removing the tick, clean the bite area thoroughly with soap and water.

Ongoing Vigilance

Ticks remain active into the fall, so continued vigilance is essential. By taking preventative measures and being aware of the risks, New Yorkers can enjoy the outdoors safely and minimize their chances of contracting a tick-borne illness.

Source: New York State Department of Health, CBS6 Albany