Tick-Borne Diseases in Santa Cruz County 2005

Annual Report 2005, Santa Cruz County Mosquito and Vector Control District

The County had six reported cases of Lyme disease, and one reported case of relapsing fever in 2005 from tick bites. Lyme disease continues to be the most important vector-borne disease in the State, with 94 reported cases in 2005. As part of an effort to enhance services, MVC now accepts, identifies, and submits ticks for Lyme disease testing for persons who have been bitten. Prevention of bites and recognition of symptoms by the public and physicians are the most recommended methods of dealing with tick-borne disease. There is currently no efficient means to control ticks other than clearing brush.

Tick-Borne Diseases in Santa Cruz County 2003-2004

Annual Report 2003-2004, Santa Cruz County Mosquito and Vector Control District

The County had 8 reported cases of Lyme disease, and one reported case of Rocky Mountain spotted fever in 2003, and 3 reported cases of Lyme disease in 2004 from tick bites. Lyme disease continues to be the most important vector-borne disease in the State, with an average of 200-300 reported cases per year. A recent study by San Jose State University suggested that the infection rate of Ixodes pacificus ticks with Lyme disease in our County may be higher than in other parts of the state, with the number infected averaging 5-6%. This finding was notably higher than previously reported prevalence estimates, although the infection rate in this area is still relatively low compared to that of some east coast states.... Prevention of bites and recognition of symptoms by the public and physicians are the recommended methods of dealing with tick-borne disease.