Stay protected: ADPH warns of mosquito, tick bite dangers

The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) has urged residents to take precautions against mosquito and tick bites, which pose serious health risks in the state. Alabama’s climate creates ideal conditions for these pests, increasing the spread of diseases such as West Nile Virus, Eastern equine encephalitis, Lyme disease, and spotted fever rickettsiosis. Symptoms range from mild fever and fatigue to severe neurological complications. To prevent bites, ADPH recommends using EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Wearing long sleeves and pants in wooded or grassy areas, checking for ticks daily, and removing standing water around homes are also key steps. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, while ticks can be encountered year-round but peak in warmer months. Residents should seek medical attention if they develop symptoms like fever, severe headache, rash, muscle aches, or fatigue after a bite. Early treatment is critical to avoid complications. ADPH emphasizes community efforts, including eliminating standing water and supporting local mosquito control programs. Travelers are advised to research mosquito-borne disease risks in their destinations, as some viruses like Chikungunya, Dengue, Malaria, Yellow fever, and Zika are not common in the U.S. Vaccines for Chikungunya and Yellow fever are available, and malaria prevention medication should be discussed with a healthcare provider before traveling to high-risk areas.