We’ve been hearing that this tick season is going to be a bad one in Connecticut. But that’s actually our own fault. If anything, it’s people season for the ticks!
Because the weather is nice and we’re spending more time outside, venturing further into woodland and beach areas, we’re really encroaching on their territory. But there are some things we can do to help prevent tick bites as well as Lyme disease and other tick-born illnesses:
• Wear repellents that contain DEET
• When outside, light colors and long sleeve shirts and pants will help make ticks easier to spot.
• Check yourself as soon as you get home, and then shower or bathe right after coming inside to wash away loose ticks and to check for any that may have attached.
• Check children and pets each time they come inside.
If you don’t spot one, but are worried about Lyme disease, some symptoms to look out for are fatigue, fever, muscle and joint pain, and bullseye rash. If you do find a tick and have been bitten, save it so you can bring it to get tested.
It’s important to have fun outdoors, but it’s more important to be safe.
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