Shield Yourself from Tick Bites This Season
Those tiny hitchhikers, ticks, can latch onto people and animals, feeding off their blood. While most bites are uneventful, some ticks can transmit diseases. Here's how to enjoy the outdoors without becoming a tick's dinner.
Tick sizes range from a pencil tip to an eraser. In our region, deer ticks, notorious for carrying diseases, are about the size of a sesame seed. They lurk in grassy areas, trees, shrubs, and leaf piles. Tick bites often leave a small bump. A rash around the bite might indicate an allergic reaction or infection. Ticks are tricky to spot initially, but they plump up as they feed.
Prevent tick bites to avoid discomfort. When venturing through wooded or grassy areas, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, along with tall socks and shoes. Stay alert to your surroundings during hikes or walks. Sticking to the center of trails and avoiding low-hanging branches can minimize your risk. Bug repellent containing at least 20% DEET is a common defense against ticks.
Once indoors, check your clothes and body thoroughly for ticks. Take a shower as soon as possible to remove any unattached ticks.
Here's what to do if you find a tick on your body:
Grab the tick close to your skin with tweezers.
Pull steadily and directly upwards, avoiding twisting or crushing.
Double-check that the entire tick is removed, leaving no mouthparts behind.
Clean the bite area with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer.
Resist the urge to squish the tick with your fingers. Dispose of a live tick by submerging it in alcohol before flushing it, or seal it in a container for disposal.
Be aware of Lyme disease symptoms, such as a bullseye-shaped rash, fever, fatigue, headaches, and muscle and joint aches. If you experience any of these, see a doctor promptly.
Remember, most tick bites are harmless, as only specific tick species carry Lyme disease. Additionally, it typically takes 36-48 hours of attachment for Lyme disease transmission to occur. By finding and removing a tick within 24 hours, you significantly reduce your risk.
Since peak tick season lasts from April to September, be sure to check yourself after every outdoor adventure. Whether you're tending to your yard or exploring the woods, follow these tips to shield yourself from tick bites.