CSTE Lyme Disease Workgroup

VBD Social Media "Thunderclap"

Dear colleagues,

On May 1, 2018, CDC will release a Vital Signs report highlighting the nation’s increasing risk of vector-borne diseases and what can be done to reduce those risks. Join us in sharing information to increase awareness about how we can all help take steps to address and stop the vector-borne disease threat. 

Widespread and difficult to control, vector-borne diseases, spread through the bite of an infected mosquito, tick, or flea, are major causes of illness and death worldwide. The growing number and spread of these diseases pose an increasing risk in the United States. State and local health department and vector control organizations are on the frontlines for detecting, tracking and monitoring, responding to, and preventing diseases spread by mosquito, tick, and flea bites. However, according to a recent NACCHO survey, over 80% of US vector control organizations lack critical prevention and control competencies.

To better address current threats, like Lyme disease and West Nile virus, and ensure that we as a nation are prepared, we must:
  • Build or rebuild state and local capabilities and capacity, 
  • Partner with public health stakeholders and vector control organizations to detect and respond to threats, 
  • Develop and improve laboratory tests, and 
  • Educate the public about how to protect themselves and their communities. 

JOIN the Vector-Borne Diseases Thunderclap today
Thunderclap amplifies social media messages by connecting partners and friends to share the same message at the same time through Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr. The @CDC_NCEZID Twitter account is hosting the Vector-Borne Diseases Thunderclap, and you can join with this link: https://bit.ly/2JaHmjY

PROMOTE the Thunderclap with your members and on social media
Here are some sample social media messages that you are welcome to use as soon as possible.

SHARE CDC’s tickborne and mosquito-borne disease resources 

Share the following resources on your website.