Behavioral and cognitive factors influencing tick-borne disease risk in northeast China: Implications for prevention and control strategies.

The growth in ecotourism and nature-based recreational activities in China has resulted in an increased frequency of visits to green spaces, thereby elevating exposure to ticks and the subsequent risk of tick-borne diseases. This study comprehensively investigate individual behavioral and cognitive factors associated with the risk of contracting tick-borne diseases to facilitate the development of effective prevention and control strategies, supporting public health initiatives in high-prevalence regions. We conducted an extensive questionnaire survey among 3000 residents from three northeastern provinces in China (Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Liaoning), where tick-borne diseases exhibit relatively high prevalence.