How to Avoid Tick Bites

Knowing how to minimize the risk of exposure to ticks is the first defense against the diseases they carry. Early detection of tick bites and the proper removal of the tick can cut down the risk of becoming infected.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Dress Appropriately-
   Long pants and long sleeved shirts help create a barrier so that the tick has a harder time finding an open spot of skin to latch on to. Tuck pants legs into socks, tuck shirt-tails in and button sleeve cuffs as tight as possible for maximum protection.

2. Wear light colored clothing-
   Light colored clothing does nothing to repeal ticks, but it does make it easier to see if they are crawling around on them. Examine clothing outdoors before going inside. If possible, stick them into the wash straightaway.

3. Use Repellents-
   There are many types of repellent on the market- some are more effective than others. Those products that contain DEET [N,N-diethylmeta-tolumide]can safely be used on skin and clothing. Products that are Permethrin-based are more effective if applied to clothing only. Just spray until the fabric is damp and allow to dry before wearing. This is a long lasting method good for camping or hunting where clothing may be worn for extended periods of time.

4. Use netting and screening-
   Window screens and netting over beds and strollers can provide an added layer of protection against ticks in the woods

5. Stay in the middle of trails, paths, etc.-
   You can cut down on the risk of encountering ticks by avoiding brushing up against heavy vegetation where they may have infested. Keep pets out of dense vegetation as well.

6. Spray vegetation in yard-
   Consider spraying your shrubs and bushes if you live in a heavily wooded area. Carefully follow any directions on the packaging to safeguard children and animals.

7. Protect and check pets-
   Pets can bring ticks into homes. Make sure they are protected and check them often; especially if they sleep with you.

8. Check for Ticks in the shower or bath-
   Have a friend or family member check for ticks in areas of the body that may not be visible to you. If a tick has embedded itself in the skin, remove it with tweezers by grasping the tick as close to the skin as possible and gently pulling straight back until the tick becomes dislodged. Do not twist or jerk the tick as that may cause the head of the tick to remain embedded in the skin. Wash the area and disinfect it with rubbing alcohol or iodine. Save the tick for reference in case you become ill. It will make an early diagnosis easier.

9. For several days after a bite-
   If you notice a rash or bulls eye around the bite site and experience fatigue, headache, neck stiffness, pain or stiffness in muscles or joints, slight fever, swollen glands, or conjunctivitis, call your doctor. Early treatment is crucial against some tick-borne diseases.

Tips & Warnings

• Research the different types of ticks and know which ones can be dangerous to you and your family.
• Always use caution in using chemicals.

Resources

• Center for Disease Control

[mattsaboy]

on 9/15/2009 Great article and tips. Thanks! 5 stars and a recommendation.

[Rosepedal]

on 6/22/2009 Very important information. Everyone needs to read this. Rated and recommended