Every May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating the public about the risks of tick-borne diseases and how to stay safe outdoors. In Oregon, Governor Tina Kotek has officially proclaimed May as Lyme and Tick-borne Diseases Awareness Month to emphasize the growing concern for public health.
Why May?
πΏ Increased Tick Activity β With the arrival of warmer weather, ticks become more active and remain so throughout the summer.
πΆββοΈ More Outdoor Exposure β People spend more time hiking, camping, and enjoying nature, increasing their chances of encountering disease-carrying ticks.
What is Lyme Disease?
β A multi-stage illness caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi.
β Transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged tick (Ixodes pacificus in Oregon).
β Can cause acute and chronic symptoms if left untreated, affecting multiple systems in the body.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
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Stay Tick-Aware Outdoors β Know where ticks live (grassy, brushy, wooded areas).
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Use Tick Repellent β Apply EPA-approved insect repellents with DEET, picaridin, or permethrin on clothing.
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Wear Protective Clothing β Long sleeves, pants, and light-colored clothing make it easier to spot ticks.
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Check for Ticks Daily β Inspect yourself, children, and pets after spending time outdoors.
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Remove Ticks Safely β Use fine-tipped tweezers to remove ticks as close to the skin as possible.
Lyme Disease in Oregon
- The Western Blacklegged Tick (Ixodes pacificus) is the primary vector of Lyme disease in the Western U.S.
- During the past six years, an average of 69 human cases of Lyme Disease have been reported each year.
π’ Stay Informed & Stay Protected!
For more information on Lyme disease, tick prevention, and mosquito control efforts in Jackson County, visit Jackson County Vector Controlβs website #dontbeaticktargetΒ or contact local public health authorities.
CDCΒ https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/index.html
Letβs enjoy the great outdoors safely!