Babesiosis prevention poster.

What are your favorite outdoor activities?

Outdoor activities are a great way to have fun and stay healthy, but some may put you at risk for a tick bite.

Ticks can spread diseases, such as babesiosis, which is:

• A flu-like illness (fever, fatigue)

• Sometimes asymptomatic (does not cause symptoms)

• Potentially severe and even life threatening

• Caused by a microscopic parasite

• Most common in the Northeast and upper Midwest

• Most common during warmer months

• Preventable and treatable

Most cases of babesiosis are reported in people 60 years old and older.

Keep enjoying your favorite activities, and follow these tips to stay safe:

• Avoid areas where ticks are likely to be found

• Walk or hike in the center of the trail

• Avoid wooded or bushy trails

• Check your entire body for ticks every day

• Remove ticks properly and as soon as possible

• Talk to your doctor if you feel sick in the days and weeks following a tick bite

CDC-INFO Pub ID 221820

Stephen B. Thacker CDC Library collection