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Insect-borne Diseases
Mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas that spread germs (pathogens) are called vectors. A person who gets bitten by a vector and gets sick could have a vector-borne disease (VBD).
The browntail moth is an invasive species found only in Maine and Cape Cod. The browntail moth caterpillar has tiny poisonous hairs that cover its body. These hairs cause a rash similar to poison ivy on sensitive individuals. The hairs can also become airborne, especially during many yard work activities. If inhaled, these hairs can cause breathing problems in some people. Caterpillars are active from April to late June. The hairs can remain toxic in the environment for years.
Exposure
Know where to expect ticks
Ticks live in grassy, brushy, or wooded areas. Avoid wooded and brushy areas with high grass and leaf litter. Walk in the center of trails to prevent contact with ticks. Tick exposure can occur year-round, but ticks are most active from April to September in the United States. Use the Tick Bite Data Tracker to learn when people in different parts of the country may be at highest risk for tick bites.
Know where to expect mosquitoes
Mosquitoes live throughout the continental United States and U.S. territories. About 12 types of mosquitoes can spread germs through bites. Because you can't tell which mosquitoes could be spreading germs, take steps to protect yourself. Mosquitoes bite day and night.
Know where to expect browntail moths
When working in heavily infested areas, wear proper protective equipment to reduce exposure including: long sleeves, long pants, goggles, dust mask/respirator, hat, disposable coveralls. Avoid heavily infested areas between April and August. Don't use leaf blowers or lawnmowers on dry days in these areas. Using pre-contact poison ivy wipes can help minimize hairs sticking into exposed skin. Do yardwork on wet days, which decreases the likelihood that the hairs will become airborne. Make sure to use a HEPA filter on a wet/dry vacuum to decrease the likelihood that the hairs will become airborne. Do not dry laundry outside in infested areas.