Combatting tick-borne diseases, Steuben County Public Health distributes complimentary Tick Removal Kits, emphasizing prevention and swift action. Learn more below.
In a proactive move to combat tick-borne diseases, the Steuben County Public Health Department has launched a campaign to distribute complimentary Tick Removal Kits to both residents and visitors across the county. With warmer temperatures enticing people outdoors, the risk of encountering ticks and related illnesses rises significantly. Mealea Vandenburg, the Public Health Education Coordinator for Steuben Public Health, emphasized the importance of these kits, which include a variety of essentials for safe tick removal and identification. Each kit contains a NY State ID Card, alcohol pads, band-aids, and a pair of tweezers.
Vandenburg stressed the significance of swift tick removal, as prompt action can reduce the likelihood of disease transmission. She advised individuals to use fine tip tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and to pull it straight up. While not all ticks carry diseases, caution is paramount due to the potential long-term effects of untreated tick-borne illnesses. Symptoms can range from rashes to fever and body aches, underscoring the importance of preventive measures and early detection.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) underscores the heightened risk faced by outdoor workers, particularly those operating in wooded or grassy environments where ticks are prevalent. By providing free Tick Removal Kits, Steuben County Public Health aims to empower the community to safeguard against these threats effectively. The kits can be obtained at the Public Health office, situated at 3 East Pulteney Square, Bath NY 14810. With proactive measures and awareness, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the outdoors safely during the warmer months.
