Protecting Yourself and Your Pets from Ticks

If you live near forests or rural areas, ticks are an unavoidable concern. These tiny arachnids feed on the blood of animals and humans, and while their bites aren’t painful, they can transmit serious illnesses such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and babesiosis. Left untreated, these infections can cause long-term health problems.

Prevention is key. When spending time outdoors, wear long sleeves, tuck pants into socks, and use tick repellents on skin and clothing. Afterward, check yourself, children, and pets thoroughly — especially around the scalp, ears, armpits, and between toes. Awareness and routine checks greatly reduce your risk.

If a tick attaches to your skin, remove it carefully. Avoid pulling it with your fingers or using petroleum jelly. Instead, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull upward slowly and steadily. Do not twist or squeeze the tick, as this can push harmful bacteria into your bloodstream.

Once removed, clean the area with soap and water or antiseptic. Dispose of the tick by sealing it in a bag, flushing it, or keeping it for identification if advised by a doctor or vet.

Pets are frequent targets, so use veterinarian-approved tick preventives and inspect them often, especially after outdoor play.

After any bite, monitor for symptoms like fever, fatigue, joint pain, or a rash near the bite site. Seek medical help immediately if these appear — early treatment is essential for preventing tick-borne diseases.