The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) urged residents on May 4 to take steps to protect themselves and their animals from mosquitoes and ticks while cleaning up after recent flooding events.
Officials say that the increase in standing water from flooding creates more breeding sites for mosquitoes, while ticks may move into new areas. Both insects can carry diseases that affect humans and animals, making prevention important for public health.
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive, said, “Preventing tick and mosquito bites is the best way to avoid diseases including Lyme disease, West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. Use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors to help prevent bites. If you find a tick attached to your body, promptly remove it, monitor your health and consult with a medical provider if you become ill.”
According to MDHHS officials, mosquito-borne viruses are spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes. While most people do not develop symptoms after being bitten by an infected mosquito, some may experience high fever, confusion, muscle weakness or severe headache within two to fourteen days. Tick-borne diseases can cause symptoms such as fever or chills, rash, headache or fatigue one to two weeks after a bite—especially after spending time in wooded or brushy areas.
Dr. Nora Wineland, state veterinarian at MDARD said: “The standing water created after flooding and excess rain makes for ideal breeding sites for mosquitoes and increases the likelihood that ticks will move into new areas. Both insects can carry diseases that affect humans and animals… Taking a few simple steps now can go a long way in keeping Michigan’s animals healthy and protected.” She advised livestock owners to check properties for pooled water; use veterinarian-recommended repellents; monitor animals for illness; mow lawns regularly; trim tall grasses; remove leaf litter; stack firewood neatly; create barriers between property edges; apply EPA-registered repellents on exposed skin according to label directions; store pesticides safely out of reach of children or pets;
and bathe soon after outdoor activities.
Residents are encouraged by MDHHS officials always check themselves—and their pets—for ticks following outdoor activity even around their own homes. The department offers free identification services: photos of ticks may be emailed for identification or physical specimens submitted at no charge.
For more information about mosquito- or tick-borne illnesses as well as how-to guides on performing tick checks,
officials recommend visiting Michigan’s Emerging Diseases webpage.
