Stay protected: ADPH warns of mosquito, tick bite dangers

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - A warning from the Alabama Department of Public Health: protect your family and yourself from ticks and mosquitoes and the diseases they carry. This is the time of year we’re all spending more time outside, so our exposure to ticks and mosquitoes increases along with our risk of catching dangerous illnesses from them.

ADPH says the climate in our state creates ideal conditions for mosquitoes and ticks, which can spread things like West Nile Virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, Lyme disease, and spotted fever rickettsiosis. These diseases can cause a wide range of symptoms — everything from mild fever, fatigue and rashes to more severe neurological complications.

So here’s what you can do to prevent ticks and mosquitoes from biting and transmitting those illnesses:

• Use EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas
• Check for ticks daily, especially after outdoor activities, because ticks are commonly found in brushy and wooded areas throughout Alabama
• Remove standing water around homes to prevent mosquito breeding
• Maintain window and door screens to keep insects out

Be aware of peak exposure times

Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, while ticks are often encountered in grassy, wooded, or leaf-covered environments. In Alabama, tick activity can occur year-round but is especially common in warmer months.

When to seek medical care

Residents should contact a healthcare provider if they experience symptoms such as fever, severe headache, rash, muscle aches, or fatigue following an insect bite. Early treatment is important to prevent complications.

Community prevention matters

Reducing the risk of vector-borne diseases is a shared responsibility. Community members are encouraged to eliminate standing water, support local mosquito control efforts, and stay informed through ADPH updates.

Preventing mosquito bites while traveling

Overseas travelers should learn about current risks and how to prevent mosquito bites during their trip. Mosquitoes spread viruses and parasites not common or present in the continental United States, such as Chikungunya, Dengue, Malaria, Yellow fever and Zika. Chikungunya and Yellow fever vaccines are available for travelers, and if traveling to an area where malaria is found, talk to your healthcare provider about malaria prevention medicine.

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