From the Governor of the State of Maryland

TICKBORNE DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH

MAY 2023

WHEREAS, Lyme Disease, which is transmitted by the bite of an infected tick, is the most commonly reported tickborne disease in Maryland with over 800 cases reported in 2020; and

WHEREAS, Ticks transmit not only Lyme Disease, but also other serious diseases including Rocky Mountain spotted fever, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and tularemia; and ​​

WHEREAS, Lyme Disease, and other diseases transmitted by ticks, are best prevented by wearing protective clothing, applying appropriate repellents, checking thoroughly for ticks, and showering after being in tick habitats, avoiding tick-infested areas, keeping ticks off of pets, and managing the environment to minimize tick abundance; and

WHEREAS, The Maryland Department of Health joins with local health departments, health care providers, veterinarians, community organizations and advocacy groups to raise awareness about Lyme Disease and other tick-borne illnesses, and to encourage Maryland residents to protect themselves and their children from diseases. 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, WES MOORE, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND, do hereby proclaim MAY 2023, as TICKBORNE DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH in Maryland and do commend this observance to all of our citizens. 

Given Under My Hand and by the Great Seal of the State of Maryland this 1st day of May Two-Thousand and twenty-three