Farmers’ Knowledge and Practices About Ticks and Tickborne Diseases in Illinois

OBJECTIVE: Tickborne diseases (TBDs) in Illinois have increased in recent years. A growing body of literature indicates that the risk of exposure to ticks and tickborne diseases is higher among outdoor workers, including farmers. However, information is lacking on awareness of ticks and tickborne diseases among this demographic. This study aimed to determine the knowledge and awareness among Illinois farmers regarding ticks and tickborne diseases. METHODS: A Knowledge, Attitudes & Prevention practices (KAP) survey was developed and administered to capture information regarding farmers' knowledge and attitudes about ticks and TBDs. Tick drags were conducted on a subset of properties as an incentive to complete the survey and to compare farmers' knowledge or expectations of ticks on their land with ticks collected. CONCLUSION: Knowledge of ticks and TBDs was lower among crop farmers than beef or mixed commodity farmers, but farmers generally have moderate knowledge of tick species in Illinois. Many participants expressed low concern over contracting a TBD, but many were also dissatisfied with the level of tick prevention measures that they follow. These results can be utilized to fill in knowledge gaps and develop informational materials to help farmers protect themselves against ticks and TBDs.