10 Tips for Keeping Ticks Away
Ticks have become quite the hot topic as the weather warms up. Federal experts say the number of Americans infected with diseases transmitted by ticks, mosquitoes and fleas has more than tripled in recent years.
Ticks are tiny and live in dark, damp environments, especially near wooded areas. As you spend more time outdoors this summer, it’s important to keep an eye out for these pests. Despite their small size, ticks can pass along Lyme disease and other big concerns.
Luckily, the steps to preventing tick bites are simple:
- Try to minimize the amount of skin exposed when in these types of environments. Long sleeves, pants and long socks are best, even though they can be unappealing in the summer heat.
- Invest in a tick repellent – you can typically find it at most grocery or sporting goods stores. The main ingredient in most tick repellents, DEET, can be harmful in large amounts to children, so choose one that has a lower DEET concentration and always supervise the use of it on your children.
- Don’t allow your children to play in leaves or other prime tick habitats – this is especially true if a leaf pile has been on the ground for more than a day, collecting moisture.
- After all outdoor activity, inspect yourself and your children for ticks. They are small, brown and round. Even if your kids are not itching or complaining of discomfort, you should check them. Many times, ticks are not detected until it is necessary to see a doctor, so don’t delay.
- Check your pets after they spend time outside, too. These bugs don’t discriminate! Don’t forget to apply your monthly tick repellent to your pets, as well.
If you do find a tick:
- Remain calm.
- Use tweezers to remove the tick by gently tugging at its body until it releases from the skin.
- Do not crush or handle the tick with your bare hands, as this can spread disease.
- Clean the bite area with antiseptic or soap and water.
- Wash all clothing immediately in hot water to kill any ticks that may remain.
Preventing and avoiding tick bites does not have to ruin your fun. Adding these simple steps or changing a few old habits can make a big difference in avoiding ticks!
If you have questions about outdoor safety or insect repellent, contact your MercyCare primary care provider. If you do not have one, fill out the form on this page and we can help!
