With warmer months approaching, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is renewing its call to “Fight the Bite,” urging residents to take preventive action against tick- and mosquito-borne illnesses. The campaign relaunch coincides with April’s designation as Tick and Mosquito Awareness Month.
In 2024, North Carolina reported more than 900 cases of tick- and mosquito-borne diseases. Ehrlichiosis made up 38% of reported tick-borne infections, while Lyme disease accounted for 33%. These illnesses can lead to fever, rashes, flu-like symptoms, and severe complications if left untreated. Prompt medical attention and antibiotics can effectively treat most cases.
To raise awareness, NCDHHS invited K-12 students to submit original artwork for a statewide poster contest. Winning illustrations, to be announced in late April, will be used by schools and health departments to promote prevention strategies.
Preventing Tick-Borne Illnesses
Ticks thrive in wooded, grassy, and brushy areas. The state health department recommends several protective steps:
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Use EPA-approved repellents with DEET or picaridin on skin; treat clothing with 0.5% permethrin.
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Check for ticks after outdoor activity and remove them promptly.
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Maintain your yard by trimming bushes, removing leaf litter, and mowing grass regularly.
Mosquito Dangers and Prevention
North Carolina frequently reports cases of West Nile virus, La Crosse encephalitis, and eastern equine encephalitis. Between 2003 and 2023, the state ranked second nationally for La Crosse virus infections.
To lower the risk of mosquito and pest exposure:
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Apply EPA-approved mosquito repellents and treat gear with permethrin.
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Ensure window and door screens are intact; use air conditioning if available.
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Eliminate standing water weekly from birdbaths, buckets, gutters, and other containers to reduce mosquito breeding grounds.
While some mosquito-borne diseases such as Zika and malaria are acquired through international travel, NCDHHS encourages anyone planning trips to speak with a healthcare provider about region-specific prevention, including vaccines.
For more resources and updates, including contest results, visit the NCDHHS “Fight the Bite” webpage.
