ROCKLAND — The Rockland Public Library has partnered with Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention for the Tick-Free ME Challenge. In 2014, Knox County reported the highest rates of Lyme disease for all of Maine's Counties, with rates far above the statewide average. The Midcoast also reported the highest rates of Lyme disease of all eight districts in Maine.

Aside from Lyme disease, there are three other tick-borne diseases in Maine: Babesia, Anaplasmosis, and Powassan. Babesia and Anaplasmosis are found throughout the state, and Powassan is still rare within the state. High tick-infested areas include wooded or forested areas, wild, unmaintained landscapes with high grass, and brush or leaf piles. Ticks are most commonly found during the summer months, but they can also be out anytime the temperature is above freezing.

The Tick-Free ME Challenge is geared towards adults ages' 45 years and older since this age group has among the highest rates of Lyme diseases throughout Maine. This is a month-long challenge during the month of July, where participants monitor their preventive behaviors, such as repellent use, use of protective clothing, tick check performance, and outdoor maintenance.

Enrollment will be open through June 22 and participants may go to:maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/infectious-disease/epi/vector-borne/lyme/tickfree/signup.shtml to sign up and choose Rockland Public Library in the
dropdown box. Not Tech savvy? Come to the library and the library staff will help sign participants up.

For more information: call 594-0310.