Tickborne Diseases Increasing Over The Past 2 Years

Maryland Department of Health urges Marylanders to guard against tickborne diseases.(image courtesy of Maryland Department of Health)May 8, 2024 (JK) – May is Tickborne Disease Awareness Month, and the Maryland Department of Health recently launched a tickborne disease prevention campaign encouraging Marylanders to take simple precautions to prevent illness caused by infected ticks in time for warmer spring weather and increased outdoor activity.In an effort to reduce the spread of disease, the campaign will provide Marylanders with weekly tips on what to do before, during, and after outdoor activities to prevent tick exposure and recognize the symptoms of tickborne diseases.Lyme disease is the most commonly reported tickborne disease in Maryland. In 2022, more than 2,000 cases were reported in the state.  In 2021, the state had about 900 cases. Most Lyme Disease cases can be cured with antibiotics.The best way to avoid tickborne diseases is to avoid ticks and their habitat. Ticks prefer humid environments and can be found outdoors in leaf litter, weeds, tall grasses, shrubs, and woods.Spring is the start of tick season, but Marylanders should continue to check for ticks after outdoor activities through the fall.To learn more about tickborne diseases and ways to protect your family and pets, visit health.maryland.gov/tick.