Tick Health

Ticks are not only a nuisance they also pose health risks. Tick-borne diseases can be passed to humans by the bite of infected ticks. Ticks can be infected with bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Some of the most common tick-borne diseases in the United States include: Lyme disease, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. According to the CDC – Lyme disease is the most commonly reported tick-borne disease in the United States. In fact 30,000 cases of Lyme Disease are reported yearly to the CDC.

Here are some facts you need to know to help protect against ticks.

• Ticks typically require 24-48 hours of feeding before they can successfully transmit infections like Lyme disease, so quick removal is crucial.
• Pets are easy targets for ticks when they play in the yard or going for a walk in wooded areas. If you’re a pet owner, don’t forget to check them frequently for ticks.
• Pets may contract multiple diseases from a single tick bite. These diseases can be very serious and even fatal. The tick that your pet carries into the house can bite you and spread disease.
• Use tweezers to remove a tick, not your bare hand. Do not twist to remove the tick and remove the tick close to the skin as it is important to not leave the head embedded.
• Be mindful of symptoms of tick disease including: a red spot or rash near bite site, neck stiffness, muscle or joint pain or a fever.
• For medical advice about tick bites or symptoms be sure to consult a medical professional.

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