Which preventive measure can help reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases?

Wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent is an effective preventive measure against tick-borne diseases because these practices help minimize skin exposure and deter ticks from attaching to the skin. Long sleeves create a barrier that reduces the likelihood of ticks making contact with the skin, particularly in areas where ticks are prevalent, such as wooded or grassy environments. Meanwhile, applying insect repellent that contains DEET or other effective ingredients can repel ticks and decrease the chances of a bite. These combined strategies are particularly vital during outdoor activities in areas known for tick populations, ultimately lowering the risk of diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which are transmitted through tick bites.

Other preventive measures, while beneficial in different contexts, do not specifically address the risks associated with tick exposure. For example, hand sanitizer is primarily effective against bacteria and viruses but does not provide any protection against ticks. Similarly, avoiding public spaces does not significantly influence the risk of tick exposure, especially since ticks are commonly found in nature rather than urban environments. Lastly, eating well-cooked meat is important for preventing foodborne illnesses but does not apply to the prevention of tick-borne diseases, which are transmitted through bites rather than food consumption.