As the weather gets warmer, the Plumas County Public Health Agency reminds everyone about the dangers of mosquitoes and tick bites. People spend more time outside during spring and summer, which means there is a higher chance of getting bitten, said PCPHA.
Mosquitoes and West Nile virus
Mosquitoes are more active when it is warm. Some mosquitoes can carry diseases like West Nile virus. The virus spreads through the bites of infected mosquitoes. Most people don’t get sick, but some — especially those over 50 or with weak immune systems — can get very sick, said PCPHA.
The agency suggests the following tips for protection against mosquitoes:
- Use bug spray: Choose one with DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus or para-menthane-diol.
- Wear long clothing: Wear long sleeves and pants, especially in the early morning and evening when mosquitoes are busiest.
- Dump standing water: Get rid of water in buckets, flowerpots, birdbaths or anything that holds water. This helps stop mosquitoes from breeding.
- Use window screens: Make sure doors and windows are equipped with screens to keep mosquitoes out.
Tick-borne illnesses
Ticks are also more common in warmer months, said PCPHA. They can carry diseases like Lyme disease, anaplasmosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. These diseases can be serious if not treated quickly.
PCPHA offers the following advice for protection from ticks:
- Avoid tick areas: Stay away from tall grass, leaf piles and thick woods. Stick to the middle of trails when hiking.
- Use tick repellent: Use repellent with 20–30% DEET on skin and clothes. People can also spray clothes with permethrin.
- Check for ticks: After being outside, check bodies and clothes. Look carefully under arms, behind knees and in hair.
- Shower soon after being outdoors: Showering within two hours can help wash off ticks and gives people a chance to check for them.
Those who find a tick on their body should remove it with tweezers, making sure they fully remove the head. Watch for signs of illness like fever, rash, body aches or pain. Anyone feeling sick after a tick bite should see a doctor right away.
PCPHA urges everyone to take these preventive measures seriously to protect themselves and their loved ones from these seasonal hazards. More information on mosquito and tick-borne illnesses is available on the California Department of Public Health vector-borne disease web page.