LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Louisville health officials are warning residents about an increased risk of ticks and tick-borne illnesses as warmer weather gets closer.
A release from the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) encouraged people to protect themselves from tickborne illnesses, and keep track of any ticks they find.
Connie Mendel, director and chief health strategist of LMPHW said the most frequently reported tickborne diseases are Rocky Mountain spotted fever and enrlichiosis. They are most commonly found in wooded, grassy and brushy areas, including backyards.
"While the majority of tick bites do not result in infections, prevention should be taken seriously because tickborne diseases can lead to some pretty significant health complications," Mendel said. "We want people to live active lifestyles and enjoy the great outdoors, but we want them to do so safely and be tick aware."
Mendel and her department urge people to "be T-I-C-K smart" by taking precautions like using repellent and protective clothing, inspecting themselves and pets for ticks, carefully removing any ticks found and monitoring for symptoms like fever, aches or rashes.
The LMPHW said another way residents can help prevent tickborne illnesses is track ticks by submitting them for monitoring. Their Spot a Tick and Share Program identified and tested more than 500 ticks since 2022.
The department provided the following guide for submitting ticks:
- Place the tick in an airtight container (not a plastic bag).
- Cover it with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer.
- Label the container with your name and contact information.
- Attach the submission form (available on louisvilleky.gov) to the container.
- Deliver to LMPHW, 400 E. Gray St., Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
To learn more about tickborne illnesses and tick prevention, visit the LMPHW's website.
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