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 action to prevent mosquitoes and ticks from breeding by keeping grass short, removing any containers that hold water (which can serve as mosquito breeding grounds) and removing plants that attract wild animals like deer and rodents, which carry ticks.

It is also important to protect yourself and your family when you're outside. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends several repellents against mosquitoes – DEET, picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus. Repellents containing permethrin provide excellent protection against ticks but may only be used on clothing. Consumers should look for products that contain CDC-recommended ingredients, and should 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.

For more information:
Mosquito-borne diseases (arboviruses)
Tick-borne diseases