Tick Season! Yikes! How to Protect Yourself and Get a Tick Out Safely
By Dr Kelly
May 10, 2019
Ticks are small, parasitic insects that can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and others. Here are some ways to protect yourself from ticks:
Wear protective clothing: When spending time in areas with tall grass or wooded areas, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes to cover as much skin as possible. Tuck pant legs into socks or boots to prevent ticks from crawling up your legs.
Use insect repellent: Use an insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin and clothing. Follow the instructions on the label for proper use and reapplication.
Check for ticks: Check yourself and others for ticks after spending time in wooded or grassy areas. Pay particular attention to areas such as the scalp, armpits, and groin, as ticks tend to attach in warm, moist areas.
Shower after outdoor activities: Take a shower within two hours of being outdoors to wash away any ticks that may be crawling on you. Use a washcloth to scrub your skin, especially in areas where ticks may attach.
Treat pets: Make sure your pets are treated for ticks with appropriate medications, and check them for ticks regularly.
Keep your yard clean: Keep your lawn mowed, remove leaf litter and brush, and create a barrier of wood chips or gravel between wooded areas and your lawn to reduce the likelihood of ticks in your yard.
Consult a healthcare provider: If you find a tick attached to your skin, remove it promptly with tweezers, and clean the area with soap and water. If you develop symptoms such as fever, rash, or flu-like symptoms after being bitten by a tick, consult a healthcare provider immediately.
By taking these steps, you can protect yourself from ticks and reduce the risk of tick-borne illnesses. Remember to be vigilant when spending time outdoors and take appropriate measures to protect yourself and your loved ones.
