Summer Pests: Ticks, Mosquitoes, and Knowing When to Be Concerned

Ticks and Mosquitoes: A Health Alert for Upstate New York

As the warm weather arrives, residents of Upstate New York are reminded to be vigilant against ticks and mosquitoes, which can carry diseases that pose a significant health risk.

Common Symptoms of Tick-Borne Diseases

Two of the most prevalent tick-borne diseases in the region are Lyme disease and anaplasmosis. Symptoms of anaplasmosis include fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, confusion, and fatigue, while Lyme disease often begins with an expanding rash near the tick bite that looks like a bull's-eye or solid patch. Early symptoms of Lyme disease also include fever, fatigue, headache, joint and muscle aches, and sometimes a rash.

Prevention and Treatment

To prevent tick bites, it is recommended to avoid tick-infested areas, especially wooded and grassy places. Using EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET or permethrin-treated clothing can also help. Wearing long sleeves, long pants tucked into socks, and light-colored clothing to spot ticks easier is also advisable. After outdoor activities, thorough tick checks on yourself, children, and pets are essential. Prompt tick removal is crucial, as some diseases like Powassan virus can be transmitted within 15 minutes.

Early treatment for Lyme disease and anaplasmosis typically involves antibiotics, often doxycycline, and is effective if started promptly. Because anaplasmosis can be severe, timely medical attention is important when symptoms develop. If symptoms such as fever, rash, headache, or fatigue occur after a tick bite, seek healthcare promptly for diagnosis and treatment.

Mosquito-Borne Diseases

West Nile virus is another threat in the region. While it is spread through mosquito bites, simple precautions like applying DEET-based bug repellant, staying on trails, tucking pants into socks, and drying clothes on high heat can help prevent bites. Checking for ticks after spending time outdoors, especially in areas with higher grass or leaf litter, is also essential.

Other mosquito-borne diseases include Zika virus, chikungunya virus, and dengue. These diseases are uncommon in the United States (aside from Puerto Rico). If concerned about a mosquito bite, reach out to a healthcare provider or begin a Virtual Urgent Care visit.

A Word of Caution

Deer ticks can also transmit other diseases like anaplasmosis and babesiosis. Nymphal-stage ticks, which are small as a sesame seed, are hard to see and pose a significant risk during this period. Ticks and mosquitoes can carry diseases such as Lyme disease, West Nile, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis.

UR Medicine providers can treat tick bites during a Virtual Urgent Care Visit. MyChart allows you to start a Video Visit with a healthcare provider. If assistance is needed in removing a tick, find a UR Medicine Urgent Care near you.

Lyme disease is the most common tick-associated disease in Upstate New York due to a high number of infected deer ticks. Extreme, rare cases might include convulsions, muscle weakness, paralysis, and even dangerous infection of the brain (meningitis/encephalitis).

Stay safe this season by following these guidelines and seeking medical attention promptly if symptoms develop after a tick or mosquito bite.

Science plays a crucial role in understanding the health threats posed by ticks and mosquitoes in Upstate New York.
The workplace-wellness of residents can be affected by the symptoms of tick-borne diseases like fever, headache, and muscle pain.
Prompt medical treatment is essential for managing chronic conditions like Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, both of which are prevalent in the region.
Fitness and exercise can help boost the immune system and potentially ward off the effects of chronic kidney disease, a condition sometimes transmitted by tick bites.
COPD and type-2 diabetes, two common chronic diseases, may be exacerbated by neglected health issues arising from tick and mosquito bites.
Cancer research may help identify potential links between certain mosquito-borne diseases and a higher risk of certain types of cancer.
Respiratory conditions such as COPD may worsen due to the added stress inflicted by various medical conditions transmitted by ticks or mosquitoes.
The field of environmental science is critical in understanding the environmental factors that contribute to the proliferation of ticks and mosquitoes.
The finance sector can play a role in funding the research and development of therapies and treatments for diseases carried by ticks and mosquitoes.
Climate change may influence the range and activity patterns of ticks and mosquitoes, potentially increasing their health risks.
In the manufacturing industry, workers can be advised on protective measures against ticks and mosquitoes to safeguard their hearing and overall health and wellness.
When it comes to mental health, ongoing stress due to tick and mosquito-related health issues may have detrimental effects on a person's well-being.
Eye health can be affected if a tick or mosquito bite leads to a more severe infection, such as Lyme disease meningitis or encephalitis.
Regular checking for ticks and taking necessary precautions can help maintain skin health and reduce the risk of developing skin conditions.
Hearing can potentially be impacted by untreated diseases transmitted through tick or mosquito bites, leading to increased vulnerability in the workplace.
Alzheimer's disease and autoimmune disorders may have complications associated with untreated, tick-transmitted diseases like Lyme disease or anaplasmosis.
The presence of ticks can pose risks not only for humans but also for pets, necessitating vigilance in pet care and wellness.
Leadership in small businesses and the entrepreneurship sector can drive initiatives to ensure a safe working environment free from tick and mosquito-related health threats.
Public transit agencies can promote awareness and best practices for tick and mosquito bite prevention among their staff and passengers.
The retail sector can provide information on proper clothing choices and insect repellents to protect shoppers from potential bites.
Ticks and mosquitoes can contribute to climate change indirectly by transmitting diseases that impact human health, thereby possibly affecting work productivity.
The housing market can be influenced by factors such as the prevalence of ticks and mosquitoes, which can impact property values due to health concerns.
Venture capitalists and banks can invest in businesses developing innovative solutions for tick and mosquito control and prevention.
The banking and insurance sectors can offer support and resources for individuals dealing with medical conditions resulting from tick or mosquito bites.
The fintech industry can enable faster access to healthcare services and payment solutions for tick-borne disease treatments.
Real estate developers can incorporate tick and mosquito control measures within commercial and residential properties to protect their residents and potentially improve property values.