TDH Urges Tennesseans to Prevent Tick and Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Photo byЕгор КамелевonUnsplash

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – With summer in full swing, the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) has recently released a press release reminding residents to take precautions against tick and mosquito bites. As outdoor activities increase, the risk of contracting diseases from these pests also rises.

“Spending time outdoors is beneficial, but it’s essential to protect yourself from ticks and mosquitoes,” said TDH Deputy State Epidemiologist Mary-Margaret Fill, MD, MPH. “Simple preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of tick and mosquito-borne illnesses.”

While most bites cause only minor irritation, some can lead to severe conditions with serious health impacts, including long-term nerve or brain damage, or even death. There are no vaccines or specific treatments for many of these diseases, making prevention crucial.

“Antibiotics can treat some tick-borne illnesses,” noted TDH Vector-borne Disease Program Director Abelardo Moncayo, PhD. “Informing your healthcare provider about any recent tick bites is vital if you fall ill.”

To prevent mosquito and tick bites, TDH recommends the following:

• Use insect repellents: Apply DEET, Picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 on your skin. Follow label instructions, especially regarding use on children. Avoid applying around the mouth or eyes.

• Reduce mosquito habitats: Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed, such as in clogged drains, gutters, watering cans, and empty bottles.

• Use permethrin: Treat clothing, shoes, bed nets, and camping gear with permethrin. This insecticide remains effective even after multiple washings but should not be applied directly to the skin.

• Wear protective clothing: Opt for long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Tuck pants into socks and shirts into pants. Light-colored clothing can make it easier to spot ticks and mosquitoes.

For more details on protecting yourself from tick and mosquito bites, visit TDH’s tick-borne diseases page and mosquito-borne diseases page.

The Tennessee Department of Health is committed to protecting, promoting, and improving the health and well-being of all Tennesseans. Learn more at tn.gov/health.

For media inquiries, contact TDH Media at TDHMedia@tn.gov.