Tick Bite Prevention

 

With longer days comes more outdoor fun... and ticks. These little troublemakers can cause big problems if they bite us.

To stay safe, we can follow some simple tips:

• Wear light-colored clothing so ticks are easier to spot.
• Use insect repellent, such as DEET.
• When hiking, stick to the center of trails and avoid tall grass and bushes where ticks like to hide.
• When you are done outside, check your body and clothes for ticks, especially in warm, moist areas like behind your knees and in your armpits.
• If you find a tick, don't panic! Use tweezers to gently remove it, pulling straight out without twisting.
• Contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms, like a rash or fever after being outside.

For more detailed prevention tips, please check out the Department of Health's Tick page.