The Dangers of Ticks (And How to Avoid Them). Ticks are small, parasitic insects that can be found in tall grasses and woods. They attach themselves to their host (usually a human or animal) and feed on their blood. Ticks can transmit a number of diseases to their hosts, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis and tularemia. The best way to deal with tick bites is to avoid them. Here are 8 tips to avoid tick bites and avoid illness if you do get bitten.
1. Wear long sleeves and pants – Wearing long sleeves and pants helps prevent ticks from reaching your skin to bite you.
2. Use insect repellent – Insect repellent helps keep ticks away from your skin.
3. Stay on cleared paths – Ticks are often found in tall grasses and woods. Staying on cleared paths helps you avoid contact with them.
4. Check for ticks – Checking for ticks after being in an area where they may be present can help you catch a bite before it happens.
5. Remove ticks promptly – If you do find a tick on your body, remove it as soon as possible. Use a pair of tweezers to grip the tick as close to the skin as possible. Next, pull the tick straight out with steady pressure.
6. Disinfect the bite site – Disinfecting the bite site can help prevent infection. Use soap and water or rubbing alcohol to disinfect the area.
7. Watch for symptoms – After a tick bite, watch for any signs of illness, such as fever, rash, or joint pain.
8. See a doctor if you have symptoms – If you do develop symptoms after a tick bite, see a doctor immediately.
Ticks are small creatures that can cause big problems. By taking some simple precautions, you can avoid being bitten by a tick and contracting a potentially serious disease. Avoid ticks in your yard with pest control services from The Pest Force. We can treat for ticks and fleas on your property to protect you and your pets from these nasty pests.
