Ticks: What You Need to Know
Ticks are small, oval-shaped parasites that feed on blood and can transmit serious diseases. Typically brown to black, they live in wooded areas, tall grass, leaf litter, and places where animals roam.
Health Risks:
-
Lyme disease: Causes fever, fatigue, joint pain, and possible neurological issues.
-
Rocky Mountain spotted fever: Leads to high fever, rash, and circulation problems.
-
Anaplasmosis and babesiosis: Can weaken the immune system and cause flu-like symptoms.
Prevention Tips:
-
Wear long, light-colored clothing; tuck pants into socks.
-
Use insect repellents with DEET or icaridin.
-
Check your body, clothes, and pets after being outdoors.
-
Keep grass short and remove leaves and brush.
If You’re Bitten:
-
Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to your skin.
-
Pull straight out slowly—don’t twist or crush it.
-
Clean the bite area with soap and disinfectant.
Stay alert and take precautions to protect yourself from tick-borne illnesses.
