Project ITCH (Is Tick Control Helping?) Public Presentation

As tick-borne illnesses continue to pose a significant public health risk across the Cape and Islands, researchers are stepping up public education and outreach efforts to help residents stay informed and protected.

On Monday, July 28 from 4:00–5:00 PM, the Falmouth Public Library will host a public update on Project ITCH (Is Tick Control Helping?), a CDC-funded research initiative that aims to assess the effectiveness of common tick control methods in real-world settings.

The event will take place in the Hermann Foundation Meeting Room at the Main Library, 300 Main Street, Falmouth.

The presentation will be led by Dr. Stephen M. Rich, a professor of microbiology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Executive Director of the New England Center of Excellence in Vector-borne Diseases. Dr. Rich has been at the forefront of tick-borne disease research in southeastern Massachusetts, working in close collaboration with Barnstable County Extension and the Department of Health and Environment.

Now in its third year, Project ITCH is being conducted across all six New England states. The Cape Cod portion of the project includes field visits to residential properties, tick sampling, and resident surveys. The data help researchers evaluate the effectiveness of various tick prevention strategies and inform future public health efforts.

Dr. Rich will share preliminary findings from the current field season, highlight trends observed across the region, and offer guidance on effective tick control methods for homeowners and communities.

This event is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended. 

For more information, contact the Falmouth Public Library at (508) 457-2555 or visit www.falmouthpubliclibrary.org.