Fortunately, you might repel ticks and help prevent their bites.

They don’t usually bite humans till they are nymphs (immature ticks) or adults.

They mainly live in grasses, low shrubs, and woody plants.

A person laces boots for tick prevention

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you could acquire ticks if you walk through grass that reaches your ankles or above.

A state’s health department may be a source of this information.

You may also use theUniversity of Rhode Island’s interactive tool.

Before Heading Outdoors

If you’re heading to potentially tick-infested areas, plan ahead.

Ticks can easily live in backyards as well as the woods or other natural areas.

So, don’t assume a yard is a safe zone for ticks.

If the clothes are damp, dry them in the dryer until they are both dry and hot.

If you wash the clothes first, use hot water.

Warm or cold water will not kill ticks.Then dry the clothes in the dryer at high heat until dry.

Examine yourself, your companions, your gear, and your pets tocheck for tickson the skin.

Shower promptly after being outdoors to wash off ticks not attached to your skin.

Take this time to do another thoroughtick checkafter you undress.

It may also protect you against other tick-borne diseases.

Use pesticides recommended for your region and follow any regulations about pesticide use.

A state’s health department website or county extension service may be a source of this information.

These include:

Don’t use repellents containing OLE or PMD on children under 3 years old.

On others, follow the instructions for use carefully.

For 30 days,watch for symptomslike a rash, fever, headache, or weakness.

Contact a healthcare provider if you have anysymptoms.

you’re able to apply a tick repellent to your skin, following directions carefully.

Illinois Department of Health.Common ticks.

National Forest Foundation.Here is what you gotta know to stay safe during tick season.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Tick lifecycles.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Preventing tick bites.

American Forests.Tick checking 101: steps to take for every hike.

2016;7(5):958-963. doi:10.1016/j.ttbdis.2016.04.016

Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station.Tick management handbook.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.What to do after a tick bite.