KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture is launching a series of workshops this month to help Tennesseans stay safe as tick populations increase across the state.
The “Tick Ready Tennessee Workshop Series” is being hosted by UT’s Medical and Veterinary Entomology Team and will provide education on how to prevent tick bites and reduce the risk of disease.
Health officials warn ticks can carry dangerous illnesses, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Ehrlichiosis, Anaplasmosis, and can even trigger life-threatening allergic reactions or tick paralysis.
“Because some pathogens can be transmitted quickly when a tick bites, it is important to know how to protect yourself before you are exposed,” said Angela Tucker, a medical entomology education specialist with UTIA. “The longer a tick is on your body, the more likely it is to transmit disease.”
The one-day workshops will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at three locations:
- Knoxville on June 15
- Spring Hill on June 16
- Jackson on June 17
Participants will learn how to identify ticks, prevent bites, and respond safely if exposed.
Anyone interested in attending can register online or email organizers for more information. Details can be found at:
https://utia.tennessee.edu/publications/wp-content/uploads/sites/269/2023/10/pb726.pdf
