Tick-borne diseases are becoming increasingly prevalent across the United States, prompting a unique collaboration between hunters and researchers to gather more information on these infections. This partnership involves hunters checking the animals they catch for ticks and then sending them to be tested for infections through a program run by Baylor University and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Program director Sarah Gunter, Ph.D., highlights the importance of understanding the risk of tick-borne diseases in various areas in order to accurately diagnose and treat affected individuals based on symptoms.
One campaigner for greater awareness of tick-borne diseases is Tony Galbo, who tragically lost his 5-year-old daughter Gabby over a decade ago due to Rocky Mountain spotted fever, a tick-borne disease that was not diagnosed in time to save her. Galbo advocates for mandatory reporting, mapping, and public awareness initiatives to reduce the number of missed cases in the future. Over the past two decades, reported cases of Lyme disease, the most common tick-borne infection in the U.S., have been on the rise. Gunter explains that ticks are moving into new areas due to changes in the climate and human migration, leading to a higher risk of disease spillover between animals and people.
Experts recommend taking preventive measures to protect against tick bites and potential tick-borne diseases. This includes avoiding grassy, brushy, and wooded areas when outdoors, using EPA-registered insect repellent, and conducting thorough tick checks after returning indoors. If a tick is found attached to the skin, it should be carefully removed using tweezers without squeezing it and brought in for testing. While being bitten by a tick does not guarantee the transmission of a tick-borne disease, monitoring the area for any changes or symptoms like rash, fever, or headache is essential. Prompt medical treatment is crucial for a favorable clinical outcome.
Dr. Céline Gounder, an internist, epidemiologist, and infectious disease specialist, emphasizes the importance of immediate treatment for tick-borne diseases to achieve a positive outcome. She underscores the need for early intervention when symptoms arise, as the traditional bull’s eye rash associated with Lyme disease may not always be present. The collaboration between hunters and researchers provides valuable data on the prevalence and risk of tick-borne diseases, informing public health initiatives to enhance awareness and prevention strategies nationwide.
As tick-borne diseases continue to pose a significant threat, efforts to raise awareness, improve surveillance, and implement preventive measures are essential. By engaging diverse stakeholders such as hunters in the collection of data and samples, researchers can gain valuable insights into the distribution and prevalence of these infections. Public health campaigns and educational initiatives can help empower individuals to protect themselves against tick bites and seek prompt medical attention if needed. Through collaborative efforts and ongoing research, the fight against tick-borne diseases can be strengthened, ultimately reducing the impact of these infections on communities across the country.
