Ditch the Hitchhikers: Keep Your Family Safe from Ticks and Mosquitoes This Spring

Spring has sprung in Livingston County—and while we welcome the sunshine and warmer weather, it also means ticks and mosquitoes are back.

These little hitchhikers can do more than just cause itchy bites. Some carry diseases like Lyme disease and West Nile Virus, and rising temperatures in Michigan are increasing their numbers. But don’t worry—there are simple steps you can take to keep your family safe.

🌿 Protect Your Little Explorers:
Whether your child is climbing trees, digging in the dirt, or walking the trails, be sure to:

• Use insect repellent (talk to your child’s doctor about options safe for babies and young children)
• Dress your child in long sleeves and pants when exploring grassy or wooded areas
• Check for ticks after outdoor play—behind ears, in hair, and around waistbands and socks are common hiding spots
• Keep your yard tidy: trim tall grass, clear leaf piles, and empty standing water to discourage mosquitoes

🦟 Want to Learn More?
The Michigan Climate and Health Adaptation Program (MiCHAP) has created a Spring Climate and Health Education Packet that includes:

• Helpful fact sheets
• Social media tips
• Kid-friendly resources to learn about tick and mosquito safety

Visit the MDHHS Emerging Diseases webpage to learn more about tick and mosquito activity in Michigan.
Sign up for email updates from MiCHAP here: bit.ly/MiCHAP-news
Or explore all their climate health resources at Michigan.gov/ClimateandHealth

For questions about this program, contact: Carolyn Koch, KochC@Michigan.gov

Let’s make outdoor adventures fun and safe this spring! 🐞🌼

#LivCoLittles #SpringSafety #OutdoorPlay #TickTips #MosquitoSmart #MiCHAP #Ticks