Be Aware NYS Dept of Health
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n NYS, you may encounter Deer ticks, Lone Star ticks, and Dog ticks. Each of these ticks can spread diseases that can cause serious chronic illnesses. Not all ticks carry bacteria or parasites that can make you sick, but as the diseases become more common to NYS, it is important to prevent all tick bites. Become aware of mosquitos as well while adventuring. In addition to the annoying itch a mosquito bite causes, there are several serious diseases that can be transmitted by a mosquito bite. In NYS, West Nile virus is a more common cause of illness from a mosquito bite.
To avoid ticks and mosquitos, wear long sleeves and pants. You are encouraged to use insect repellent (follow directions carefully) for either skin or clothing. If you see a wild animal that is acting strangely keep pets and children away as it may have rabies. Let the animal wander away on its own. If the animal continues to threaten, get to a safe area and call an animal control officer who can remove the animal. Signs of a rabid animal: unusually aggressive or friendly, may make unusual sounds, have difficulty swallowing, drooling or frothing at the mouth.
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Yates County Public Health
