Watch for Mosquitoes and Ticks in Georgia

The Georgia Department of Public Health encourages everyone to watch for mosquitoes and ticks, which can carry viruses. The most common mosquito-borne disease in Georgia is West Nile Virus, and its season is June through October, peaking in August. Ticks are most active from April to September, and Georgians are particularly susceptible to tickborne Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Now is the time to practice good mosquito- and tick-protection habits.  If contracted, West Nile Virus may cause flu-like symptoms and in some instances, paralysis or even death. Older individuals are the most likely to contract West Nile Virus, as their immune systems are often weaker. The Georgia Department of Public Health encourages you to prevent mosquito and tick bites, and avoid the viruses they carry, by following these steps. Wear EPA-registered repellant with DEET, remove any standing water where mosquitoes breed, clean your yard and neighborhood, and stay indoors when mosquitoes and ticks are most prevalent around dawn and dusk.