Now is the time for Mississippians to take preventive measures to combat mosquito and tick-related diseases that will be here before we know it during the summer and early fall.

Too often, we see these insects as no more than a common nuisance that can interrupt a nice day out with family or friends. The reality, however, is that certain mosquitoes and ticks can carry serious and deadly diseases, making the need for prevention all the more vital.

Unfortunately, the number of mosquito and tick-related illnesses are increasing in Mississippi and the rest of the country.

In a report released earlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control found the number of cases of disease from mosquito, tick and flea bites has more than tripled between 2004 and 2016.

Between 2004 and 2016, Mississippi had counted 1,137 confirmed cases of mosquito-borne illness, according to the CDC report. The most common mosquito-borne illness in Mississippi has been West Nile Virus. 2012 was the high-water mark with 247 confirmed cases and five deaths. In 2017, there were 63 confirmed cases with two deaths.

Over the 12-year CDC report period, Mississippi had fewer tick-borne cases: 539, a little less than half of the mosquito-related count. Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever has long occurred in Mississippi and remains the most common tick-borne illness. Between 2015 and 2017, provisional monthly disease reports show between 94 and 161 confirmed cases annually of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, exceeding the number of confirmed West Nile cases.

Mississippi has seen less of Lyme disease and its famous bullseye rash.

Tick-borne illnesses are treatable, but they should be taken seriously. People who develop a fever, especially with a rash, after being bitten by a tick, should seek medical attention.

Precautions suggested by state health department officials include removing sources of standing water, especially after rainfall, wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, during peak times from dusk until dawn and using a recommended mosquito repellent according to manufacturer’s directions.

We urge Mississippians to take heed of these instructions and be prepared for what could be a rough season. Taking these preventive measures could prove to be lifesaving.