Stay Safe This Summer: How to Prevent Tick-Borne Illnesses in the NC Mountains
Ticks thrive in the warm, humid forests of Western North Carolina, spreading illnesses like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, and alpha-gal syndrome. Key prevention tactics include wearing protective clothing, using effective repellents, sticking to well-marked trails, and performing regular tick checks on skin, pets, and gear. If bitten, prompt and proper removal, documentation, and medical evaluation for emerging symptoms are essential. Early functional testing and immune-supportive care help detect and address infections before they escalate.