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With autumn on the horizon and outdoor activities in high gear, deer ticks are rearing their ugly heads again. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to stay aware and protect yourself from them.
What's a deer tick?
A deer tick is a tiny, parasitic insect found in woodlands, scrub, and meadows. They're named for their habit of feeding on white-tailed deer, but any mammals - including people - will suffice when they're hungry. Ticks can spread diseases, most commonly Lyme disease, with their bites.
How do I avoid being bitten?
Check yourself, your children and pets daily for ticks. Also dress safely when you enter tick habitats. Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants tucked into your socks. Bug repellants containing DEET can be used on any exposed skin (repellants with 30-35 percent DEET are suitable for adults, while those containing 10-15% DEET are optimal for children). Alternatively, repellants with 30-40 percent oil of lemon eucalyptus have been shown to be as effective as DEET, yet have a much less toxic profile. Permethrin can be used on clothing. Use of pet tick bite prevention products is also recommended. Make sure to carefully follow the instructions for each product, and never use insect repellants on infants.
What if I find a tick?
While serious, a tick on your skin is not a cause for panic. Find a pair of fine-point tweezers, clasp the tick as closely to the skin as possible, and steadily pull straight out. Make sure to consult your doctor if you notice a rash where you were bitten, and especially if you develop symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue or body aches.
