Dutchess County Executive William R. Steinhaus and Commissioner of Health Dr. Michael C. Caldwell are encouraging area schools to participate in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the DEET Education Program’s Fight the Bite Poster Contest.  Open to all fifth and sixth graders, the contest is a fun and creative way for students to learn more about the importance of using repellent while outdoors to protect themselves and their families from diseases spread by mosquitoes and ticks, including Lyme disease.

“We continue to take tick-borne diseases very seriously in Dutchess County,” said Steinhaus. “With the warmer weather approaching, residents and visitors will be outdoors enjoying the many parks and trails that Dutchess County has to offer.  Our students can help raise awareness about what we can do to protect ourselves from ticks and mosquitoes while outdoors.”

Dutchess County Department of Health’s “Be Tick Free” outreach campaign provides important tips to prevent the spread of Lyme Disease, including the Tick Smart Program for Dutchess County elementary school teachers and health teachers that features “Tick-Check Harry,” a sheep dog stuffed-animal with seeds hidden in his fur.  Children learn about how to prevent Lyme disease by doing a “tick check” and find the “ticks” on Harry.

“Last year, two students from Dutchess County, Leona Lau and Rachael Ng, won the Fight the Bite Poster Contest for New York State and it was a great way to educate others about tick-borne diseases,” said Health Commissioner Michael C. Caldwell, MD, MPH.   “By learning prevention tips early on, our youth will develop important awareness habits that will help protect them and their families throughout their lives.”

Two winners from each state, from each grade, will receive $50 and an award certificate.  Two Grand Prize winners from each grade will receive $1,000 and a plaque.  Winning posters are used for educational outreach and public service materials.  All entries must be postmarked by April 18, 2011.

More information about diseases from mosquito and tick bites, repellent use and other prevention strategies can be found at www.dutchessny.gov, just click on the Fight the Bite link under Spotlight on the homepage or log onto www.fightthebitecontest.org.