Ticks
Ticks are frequently found in outdoor spaces that are inhabited by animals such as rabbits, possums, and bush turkeys. However, they are more commonly found on residential properties. Once they have latched humans, they can quickly find their way indoors and breed quite rapidly, spreading the infestation to various areas. These creatures prefer living in humid, bushy areas and lay their eggs in mulch or leaf matter.
Adult ticks rely on passing animals for food and transport, and they can easily drop onto packs or clothing when people are walking through tall grass or brush. They can also gain entry into your home via clothing that has been outdoors to dry. Ticks carry bacteria that can result in diseases such as Lyme disease and encephalitis.
Tick bites can cause allergic reactions in some people, and in some instances, the reactions can be quite severe. These include headaches, flu-like symptoms, rashes, and even paralysis of the face and limbs.
Tick Identifier:
Brown Dog Tick
Paralysis Tick
Prevention Tips:
DID YOU KNOW?
Ticks have eight legs, three mouth parts, and no body segmentation. Ticks may look like insects but there are distinct differences in their bodies that puts them in the spider family
To prevent tick bites, it's best to avoid brushy and wooded areas during the warmer months. Stick to the center of trails when hiking and use insect repellent when outside. Periodic tick inspections are also recommended to ensure your yard is tick-free. After being outdoors, check your body and pets for ticks, launder clothes immediately, and take a shower to reduce the risk of disease.
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Been Biten?
Ticks can be difficult to detect, so it's important to remove them carefully. These pests have a barbed feeding tube, so pulling them straight out can leave the tube in the skin. To remove a tick, use tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin's surface as possible and pull upward with even, steady pressure to remove the feeding tube. After removal, dispose of the tick by flushing it down the toilet or pouring rubbing alcohol on it to kill it. Finally, wash your hands and the bite area with warm water and soap, or disinfect everything with rubbing alcohol.
If you see a tick on your body, make sure you remove it safely. Once done, be aware of the symptoms you might experience from the bite, such as joint pain/swelling, muscle pain, headaches, and fever.
