Weekly ER visits for tick bites are already higher than expected so it is important we all take steps to protect public health. To support local-level tick prevention outreach efforts, please see two social media assets here and here from the CDC to help local health departments remind the general public to check for ticks.

Sample public health message:

Remind your family, friends, colleagues, and followers that preventing tick bites is the best way to protect yourself and loved ones from Lyme disease and other tickborne diseases. Ticks can bite all year long, though they are most active in warmer months. A few minutes of prevention can make a difference:

☑️Use EPA-registered insect repellents

☑️Treat clothing and gear with 0.5% permethrin

☑️Wear long sleeves and pants

☑️Avoid wooded and brushy areas where ticks live

☑️Shower soon after being outdoors

☑️Check for ticks, remove ticks promptly, and seek care if symptoms develop

And if you find an attached tick, remove it as soon as possible: www.cdc.gov/ticks/after-a-tick-bite. Removing attached ticks within 24 hours can help prevent Lyme disease