Ticks are tiny creatures that can cause big problems for humans and animals alike. Emory University researcher Arabella Lewis is on a mission to better understand Georgia’s tick population and the diseases they carry. Armed with tweezers and a square of white flannel, Lewis ventures into the woods to collect ticks for testing.
Ticks are attracted to movement and carbon dioxide, so Lewis uses the flannel flag to lure them in. Once a tick latches onto the fabric, she carefully removes it with tweezers and places it in a vial for further analysis. Back at the lab, the ticks are tested for diseases like the Heartland virus, a rare illness that can cause fever, fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea.
The research conducted by Emory scientists has led to the creation of detailed maps showing where Georgia’s most common ticks are likely to be found. These maps are essential for tracking the spread of tick-borne diseases and helping people take preventative measures when spending time outdoors.
Climate change plays a significant role in the rise of vector-borne diseases like those carried by ticks. Longer summers and milder winters are causing ticks to emerge earlier and stay active for longer periods. The lone star tick, known for transmitting the Heartland virus, is expanding its range as temperatures rise. Similarly, the black-legged tick, responsible for Lyme disease, is moving into new territories as well.
As humans continue to encroach on forested areas, the risk of tick exposure increases. This interaction between humans, animals, and ticks creates ideal conditions for the spread of disease. By studying ticks and the diseases they carry, researchers hope to help people avoid getting sick and stay safe while enjoying the great outdoors.
The Heartland virus remains a mystery, with no specific treatment available other than managing symptoms. Cases of this rare virus have been reported in several states, prompting health officials to keep a close eye on its spread. By understanding the behavior of ticks and the diseases they carry, researchers can work towards better prevention and treatment strategies for those at risk. Scientists are always on the lookout for potential outbreaks of diseases, especially those transmitted by vectors like mosquitoes and ticks. One such disease that has been gaining attention is chikungunya, a viral illness spread by mosquitoes. While the number of reported cases in the United States is still relatively low, researchers are preparing for the possibility of an increase in human cases.
“We are taking the steps to understand it now so if an increasing human incidence were to happen, we know what can be done,” said Gonzalo Vazquez-Prokopec, an environmental sciences professor at Emory University who leads the research team studying chikungunya. The goal is to establish a baseline of knowledge and research so that scientists can be proactive in managing these diseases as they spread and as the climate continues to change.
Chikungunya is a disease that causes fever, joint pain, muscle aches, headache, and rash. While it is rarely fatal, the symptoms can be severe and debilitating. The virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, which are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions.
As global temperatures rise and the climate becomes more favorable for the spread of mosquitoes, there is concern that diseases like chikungunya could become more widespread. By studying the disease now and understanding how it spreads, researchers hope to be better prepared to respond if the number of human cases increases.
In addition to studying the mosquitoes that transmit the virus, researchers are also looking at how environmental factors, such as temperature and rainfall, can influence the spread of chikungunya. By gaining a better understanding of the ecological factors that contribute to disease transmission, scientists can develop more effective strategies for prevention and control.
While the current number of chikungunya cases in the United States is still relatively low, the research being done by scientists like Vazquez-Prokopec is crucial for staying ahead of potential outbreaks. By being proactive and prepared, researchers hope to prevent the spread of diseases like chikungunya and protect public health in the face of a changing climate.
