It's that time of year again - tick season! As the weather warms up and people spend more time outdoors, the risk of tick bites increases. Ticks are small parasites that feed on the blood of humans and animals and can transmit a variety of diseases, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Powassan virus.
To protect yourself, your family and pets from tick bites, it's important to take some precautions. Here are some tips:
Stay on top of mowing your lawn: Ticks love long grass - keeping your lawn well-manicured and trimmed can reduce the tick habitat on your property.
Wear protective clothing: When spending time outdoors in wooded or grassy areas, wear long sleeves and pants, and tuck your pants into your socks or boots. This will make it harder for ticks to reach your skin.
Use tick repellent: Apply a tick repellent that contains DEET or picaridin to your skin and clothing. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label. Note: If you are using repellent on your pet, make sure it's safe for them to use.
Check for ticks: After spending time outdoors, check your body for ticks. Pay special attention to areas such as your scalp, behind your ears, and under your arms.
Remove ticks promptly: If you do find a tick on your body, remove it as soon as possible. Use tweezers to grasp the tick near its head and pull it straight out. Do not twist or squeeze the tick, as this can cause it to release more saliva into your skin and increase the risk of infection.
By following these simple steps, you can reduce your risk of tick bites and enjoy the great outdoors safely. If you have any concerns or notice any symptoms of a tick-borne illness, seek medical attention right away.
Stay safe and have fun!
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