The number of Lyme disease reports in Knox County continues to rise, with 187 cases reported compared to 119 at the end of 2024, according to Health Commissioner Zach Green.
"Obviously, we've continued to see a substantial increase in black-legged deer tick population and infection," Green said during a meeting video. He also mentioned that he was outside a few weeks ago and removed more than 25 black-legged deer ticks from himself.
Commissioner Barry Lester shared an experience involving his wife and their dog. Despite the dog being treated with flea and tick medicine, they found so many dead ticks on it after a walk that they had to take the pet to a groomer for removal.
Green further said that cases of norovirus are rising sharply over recent weeks. These cases are characterized by headaches, fevers, and gastrointestinal issues. In contrast, there has been hardly any increase in influenza and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) cases. He noted that the season for these illnesses is approaching. The sewer report received by the commissioners includes testing conducted at the state level, revealing data on influenza, RSV, and COVID-19.
The Health Department is piloting a sensor phone designed to log data for cold storage management. This initiative is crucial as cold storage facilities for vaccines and other medicines are distributed throughout the county. If power is lost outside business hours at any site, temperatures may fall below safe thresholds. The sensor phone sends notifications so supplies can be relocated to preserve them.
