UGA Launches Tick Study—Seeks Help From Sportsmen

Researchers at the University of Georgia have initiated a study to understand how Georgia residents perceive and deal with ticks and the diseases they carry. The investigation comes at a time when tick-borne illnesses are becoming increasingly prevalent in the Southeast.

“We want to understand people’s primary concerns about ticks, and importantly, what actions they take when they find one on themselves or a family member,” says Dr. Chris Cleveland, lead researcher of the study. “There may be a lot of variation across people living in the 159 counties of Georgia. This information will help us develop more effective public health strategies and a greater understanding of the public perception surrounding ticks and tick-borne pathogens.”

To help UGA researchers learn how Georgia residents perceive and deal with ticks and the diseases they carry, scan the QR code provided, or contact the study director, Dr. Chris Cleveland at [email protected].

Georgia’s warm climate and diverse ecosystem make it an ideal habitat for several tick species, including the blacklegged tick and lone star tick, both known carriers of various pathogens that can cause diseases in humans and animals.

Around 150 Georgians are affected by tick-borne diseases annually. Ticks across the United States impact thousands of pets’ health annually, and owning a pet greatly increases the risk of human and tick encounters. Participating in this study will provide vital information to help educate and prepare Georgians for any tick encounters they may have. Being educated and preparing for encounters can help protect people and their pets from life-altering diseases and even death.

The research team plans to survey residents across all counties in Georgia, from urban Atlanta to rural communities where exposure to ticks may be more common. They’re particularly interested in understanding how tick exposure levels vary between different communities and what preventive measures residents currently employ.

Results from the study will inform future public health campaigns and educational initiatives aimed at reducing tick-borne illnesses in the state. Participation is merely filling out a short online survey that will take about 10 to 15 minutes and is completely anonymous.

Residents interested in participating in the study can scan the QR code above, or contact the study director, Dr. Chris Cleveland at [email protected].