Erica Van Buren

5 days ago | yahoo.com | Erica Van Buren

Spring means warmer weather and an uptick in peak activity of nymph ticks, making May a good time to highlight National Lyme Disease Awareness month in Alabama. The month is dedicated to prevention and early detection. In Alabama, cases happen more between March and October when ticks are active, according to the Alabama Department of Public Health. However, in Alabama, there are not many cases of Lyme disease due to Alabama being considered low-incidence, according to the ADPH.

1 week ago | augustachronicle.com | Erica Van Buren

The emergence of these 17-year cicadas will be limited, primarily occurring in Fannin, Lumpkin, Rabun, and Union counties. While similar to last year's cicadas, their population will be smaller and less noticeable. Cicadas benefit the environment by serving as a food source, aerating soil, and providing nutrients upon decomposition. Georgia residents can expect to hear the presence of the 17-year Brood XIV cicadas in early May, especially in areas with hardwood forests.

1 week ago | augustachronicle.com | Erica Van Buren

Early Lyme disease symptoms include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes, sometimes accompanied by a "bullseye" rash. Ticks thrive in shady areas and are commonly found on deer trails, so wearing long pants tucked into socks and using tick repellent is recommended. Spring means warmer weather and an uptick in peak activity of nymph ticks making May the best time to highlight National Lyme Disease Awareness month.

1 week ago | augustachronicle.com | Erica Van Buren

The emergence of these 17-year cicadas will be limited, primarily occurring in Fannin, Lumpkin, Rabun, and Union counties. While similar to last year's cicadas, their population will be smaller and less noticeable. Cicadas benefit the environment by serving as a food source, aerating soil, and providing nutrients upon decomposition. Georgia residents can expect to hear the presence of the 17-year Brood XIV cicadas in early May, especially in areas with hardwood forests.

2 weeks ago | augustachronicle.com | Erica Van Buren

Wildfires are a significant concern in the South, with human activity being the primary cause. Prescribed burns are a crucial tool for wildfire prevention and ecosystem management. Homeowners can take steps to reduce wildfire risk by maintaining their property and practicing fire safety. Wildfire prevention and preparedness is the focus during National Wildfire Awareness Month in May, when fire season becomes more active.