If you spend time near woods or tall grass, you’ve likely crossed paths with ticks—tiny, blood-feeding arachnids that can carry serious illnesses like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and babesiosis. While a tick bite itself isn’t usually deadly, the infections these little pests transmit can have lasting, life-changing effects if not caught early.
Prevention is Your Best Defense
When heading outdoors, cover up with long sleeves and pants, stick to clear trails, and apply tick repellents to keep these critters at bay. After your outdoor adventures, carefully check yourself, your children, and pets—pay special attention to hidden spots like behind the ears, underarms, and between toes.
Found a Tick? Here’s What to Do
Remove it gently using fine-tipped tweezers—grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or squeezing to prevent leaving parts behind. Once removed, dispose of the tick by sealing it in a plastic bag, flushing it down the toilet, or keeping it safely for identification if you develop symptoms later.
Don’t Forget Your Pets
Pets can easily bring ticks indoors, so regular checks are essential. Keep an eye out for signs of tick bites on your furry friends, and be alert to any unusual symptoms in your household.
Know When to Seek Help
If you notice flu-like symptoms or a distinctive bullseye rash after a tick bite, don’t wait—see a doctor promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference in preventing serious complications.
Though ticks are tiny, the health risks they pose are real. Stay alert, act quickly, and take simple preventive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. Your vigilance can keep you safe and give you peace of mind.