“Fight the Bite” Promotes Tick and Mosquito Protection

“Fight the Bite” is the message of the Kewaunee County Public Health Department as part of a statewide campaign to teach residents how to protect themselves from tick- and mosquito-borne diseases and viruses.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), which is spearheading the effort, stresses that the biggest concerns of these pests are Lyme disease and West Nile virus. According to DHS, 3,105 cases of Lyme disease were reported in Wisconsin in 2018, plus 33 human cases of West Nile virus. A sign of West Nile virus can be a sick or dead bird; residents should call 800.433.1610 to report such cases.

To reduce the risk of bites when headed outdoors, use insect repellent with DEET; wear light-colored clothing; wear long sleeves and pants when possible; and control mosquitoes in your yard by eliminating standing water.

“The Kewaunee County Public Health Department is also distributing free Fight the Bite kits to the public this summer,” said Cindy Kinnard, director of the Kewaunee County Public Health Department. “Just stop in at our office. The kits include a tick-identification guide, tweezers, alcohol swab, bandage and an OFF! Deep Woods towelette.”