Summer Pests: Ticks, Mosquitoes, and Knowing When to Be Concerned
In Upstate New York, residents and visitors alike face the potential risk of tick- and mosquito-borne diseases. Here's a breakdown of the key facts to help you stay informed and protected.
Tick-Borne Diseases
West Nile virus can occasionally be found in New York, but it's the less common Eastern Equine encephalitis (EEE) infection that poses a greater concern.
The most common tick-associated disease in the region is Lyme disease, which is primarily transmitted by the blacklegged tick (deer tick). Symptoms of Lyme disease may include body aches, rashes, neurological troubles, and a bull's-eye patch at the tick bite site, though this can be hard to spot.
Other tick-borne diseases in Upstate New York include anaplasmosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, and to a lesser extent, Powassan virus disease. Anaplasmosis and babesiosis cause flu-like symptoms, while ehrlichiosis has similar symptoms and is associated with Lone star ticks. Powassan virus disease, transmitted quickly by infected ticks, is rare but potentially severe.
Preventive measures against tick bites include wearing long sleeves and pants tucked into socks when in wooded or grassy areas, using EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535, avoiding heavily wooded or brushy areas with high grass and leaf litter, conducting thorough tick checks after outdoor activities, and promptly removing attached ticks with tweezers.
Mosquito-Borne Diseases
West Nile virus is the primary concern when it comes to mosquito-borne diseases in New York. It is transmitted by mosquito bites and can lead to symptoms ranging from mild fever and headache to severe neurological illness in rare cases. The risks increase in summer months when mosquitoes are most active.
Prevention against mosquito bites includes using insect repellents containing DEET or other EPA-approved ingredients, wearing long sleeves and pants when mosquitoes are present, especially at dawn and dusk, eliminating standing water around the home to reduce mosquito breeding sites, and installing window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of living areas.
For more information, connect with UR Medicine through their official channels. It's important to check for ticks after coming inside, especially after spending time outdoors, especially in areas with higher grass or leaf litter. Tick season is from April through November, with the time of greatest concern being late spring and early summer.
If a tick is found attached, remove it carefully with tweezers, clean the bite area with antiseptic, and watch for symptoms such as rash or fever over the next few weeks. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
If concerned about a mosquito bite, reach out to a healthcare provider or begin a Virtual Urgent Care visit. Simple precautions like applying bug repellant, sticking to the middle of trails, tucking pants into socks, and drying clothes in the dryer on high-heat can help prevent tick bites.
Remember, the MyChart app allows you to start a Video Visit with a healthcare provider if assistance is needed in removing a tick. Deer ticks can transmit not only Lyme disease but also anaplasmosis and babesiosis. There is no current cause for concern about malaria in New York.
Stay informed, stay protected, and enjoy the great outdoors in Upstate New York!
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Ticks. https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/ [2] New York State Department of Health. (2021). Tick-Borne Diseases. https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/tick_borne/ [3] University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC). (2021). Tick-Borne Diseases. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=90&ContentID=P00689
- Science plays a crucial role in understanding the risks and preventive measures for tick- and mosquito-borne diseases.
- Workplace-wellness initiatives can include educational resources on managing medical conditions like Lyme disease and West Nile virus.
- Chronic diseases such as Lyme disease can have lasting impacts on an individual's health and wellness.
- Cancer research invests in finding alternative therapies for treating tick-borne diseases like Powassan virus disease.
- Respiratory conditions may be exacerbated by outdoor activities, increasing the risk of exposure to tick or mosquito bites.
- Digital tools like MyChart app can facilitate virtual consultations and provide resources for addressing concerns about tick-borne diseases.
- Digestive health can be affected by specific treatments for managing tick-borne diseases or side effects from medical conditions.
- Eye-health screenings should be part of routine check-ups, especially for those prone to tick or mosquito bites.
- Hearing loss or tinnitus can occur in some neurological disorders associated with tick-borne diseases.
- Health-and-wellness programs should address the impact of mental health on one's ability to cope with the stress of living in an area with high tick and mosquito activity.
- Fitness-and-exercise routines should incorporate tick bite prevention strategies for the safety of those exercising outdoors.
- Autoimmune disorders, such as Lyme disease, require targeted treatment and focused self-care for managing symptoms.
- Mental-health support is essential for individuals dealing with the challenges of tick-borne diseases and their long-term effects.
- Skin-care routines can help minimize the appearance of skin conditions caused by tick bites or subsequent infections.
- Cardiovascular health is crucial in managing the secondary effects of severe tick-borne diseases like West Nile virus.
- The industry of medical care and services must adapt to address the growing concerns over tick- and mosquito-borne diseases.
- Medicaid and Medicare programs should prioritize access to preventive treatments and care for individuals at risk of tick- or mosquito-borne diseases.
- CBD-based products can provide relief for certain symptoms associated with tick-borne diseases, but more research is needed for definitive conclusions.
- Neurological disorders, such as encephalitis, can be life-threatening complications of tick-borne diseases.
- Finance and wealth-management strategies should account for the potential costs associated with diagnosing and treating tick-borne diseases.
- Skin-conditions resulting from tick bites should be closely monitored and treated promptly to minimize any complications.
- Incorporating interior design elements that deter ticks, such as a tick-resistant turf, can aid in protecting homes and families from the risks of tick-borne diseases.
- Cooking with natural ingredients, like essential oils, can help create homemade insect repellents for added protection against ticks and mosquitoes.
- Cybersecurity measures should protect patients' personal health information, ensuring safe and secure communication between healthcare providers and patients.
- Adopting a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases associated with tick-borne diseases.
- By following recommended precautions, such as using insect repellents and avoiding heavy grass and leaf litter, one can enjoy the great outdoors in Upstate New York while minimizing the risk of tick or mosquito bites.
