BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Some of Alabama’s most populated counties are being struck this fall with record illnesses caused by a familiar pest, and the Dr. Don Williamson, the state’s top health officer is warning everyone to be on the lookout.
Calhoun, Chambers, Jefferson, Mobile, Shelby, Russell and Tuscaloosa counties have all been declared “Endemic for Lyme disease” by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH).
Lyme disease, caused by a bacteria carried in ticks, is often identified by a spreading rash, fever, headache, and feeling tired. Even after treatments and several months of recovery, those who have contracted Lyme disease can experience numbing, arthritis, fatigue, and even shooting pains and tingling.
The designation from Dr. Williamson could help heighten awareness of ticks and Lyme disease during a season when many Alabamians spend extra time soaking up the beautiful fall weather.
“We applaud the collaborative effort underway with the ADPH, The Alabama Study Commission on Tick-borne Illnesses, Lawmakers and other groups (including ALDA) to investigate ways to proactively protect Alabama citizens through awareness, education and research,” said Alabama Lyme Disease Association (ALDA) President and Founder Kevin Wolfe.
The Alabama Lyme Disease Association recommends the following steps to help prevent exposure to ticks and Lyme disease:
– Be aware and avoid tick habitats such as tall grass, bushes, brush, and woods. Avoid sitting on stumps or fallen logs
– If you go into such habitats, wear shoes and appropriate clothing (hat, long-sleeved shirt, and long pants tucked into the socks). Wear light colored clothing to make ticks more visible.
– Use tick repellents with DEET on skin and treat the outside of clothing with permethrin.
– Before coming indoors, brush off your clothing.
– Once inside, remove all clothing, check for ticks, and promptly wash and dry clothing. (Family members can help each other with the tick inspection). Remove and dispose of any unattached ticks. There is always risk of exposure when handling ticks so wash hands thoroughly after handling.
– Continue to check for ticks several days following potential exposure.
– Check bedding several days following potential exposure for ticks that may have fallen off.
If you do discover a tick on you, the Association recommends the removal method detailed below
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