In a recent update, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a warning regarding the surge in tick activity and resulting illnesses across the state. While ticks and mosquitoes are a natural part of the Kansas environment, officials emphasize the importance of understanding that some of these tiny creatures can transmit harmful diseases.

KDHE, which closely monitors tick and mosquito-borne illnesses, has reported over 200 laboratory cases of tickborne diseases as of May 29. These numbers are comparable to previous years, indicating a consistent trend. In addition to an increase in cases, officials have received numerous reports of tick bites and high tick populations. This suggests that tick activity and density are on the rise this year and occurring earlier in the season.

Various tickborne diseases caused by bacteria are present in Kansas, including Ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Spotted Fever Group Rickettsioses, and Tularemia. Additionally, two rare tickborne viruses, Heartland virus and Bourbon virus, have been found in both humans and ticks in Kansas. The Lone Star tick, which is the most abundant tick species in the state, transmits all of these tickborne diseases. Lone Star ticks can be found across at least the eastern two-thirds of Kansas in different habitats and are known for their aggressive biting behavior.

The KDHE has already investigated several severe tickborne disease cases this year, resulting in hospitalizations and, tragically, a fatal case of Bourbon virus infection. Dr. Erin Petro, KDHE state public health veterinarian, emphasizes the active nature of vector-borne diseases, both those transmitted by ticks and mosquitoes, this year. Dr. Petro urges people to take the risk of these diseases seriously and adopt personal protective measures for themselves and their pets to reduce the chances of acquiring an illness from a tick or mosquito bite.

In addition to an increase in tickborne diseases, KDHE has also noted an alarming rise in West Nile Virus cases. While cases of West Nile Virus occur annually in Kansas, the concerning trend this year is the early onset of these cases. Normally, West Nile Virus cases are reported in late July or early August, but KDHE has already received two reports this year.

To minimize the risk of contracting vector-borne diseases, the KDHE recommends several preventive measures. These include using EPA-registered insect repellents, treating clothing and gear with products containing 0.5 percent permethrin, wearing long pants tucked into socks or boots when outdoors, taking steps to control mosquitoes inside and outside the house, ensuring pets are tick-free with guidance from a veterinarian, thorough checking for ticks after spending time outdoors, and being aware of common signs and symptoms of vector-borne illnesses such as fever, chills, body aches, and rashes.

The KDHE encourages individuals to refer to their Tickborne Disease Data Stories for more information on tickborne diseases, signs and symptoms specific to each disease, tick bite prevention, and tick distribution. Additional information about vector-borne diseases can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website.

As tick activity and the risk of tickborne diseases increase in Kansas, it is crucial for residents to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their pets from these potential health threats.