Mosquitoes and Ticks

For many, mosquitoes and ticks are just a nuisance. However, they pose health risks, as they carry diseases that can cause sickness, paralysis and even death.

North Carolina leads the nation in cases of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, a disease transmitted to people by ticks. Mosquitoes can also transmit La Crosse Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, West Nile Virus and Zika Virus.

Some of the most common tick-borne diseases in the United States include: Lyme Disease, Babesiosis, Ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Anaplasmosis, Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness, Tick-Borne Relapsing Fever, and Tularemia. Lyme Disease is the most commonly reported tick-related disease in the United States.

Catawba County residents can take several actions to prevent mosquito bites. Information on diseases carried by mosquitoes can be found here.

It is also important to protect yourself and your family when you're outside. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has a list of repellents against mosquitoes and consumers should use this list to decide which product best suits their needs,then read and follow all label instructions.

Exposure to both mosquitoes and ticks can be limited by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks. People should also check themselves and their families for ticks when they are in tick-prone areas.