Spring has sprung, and with it comes the joy of spending time outdoors. Hiking, gardening, camping – the possibilities are endless! But with the warmer weather also comes the return of a less welcome guest: the woodtick, also known as the American dog tick or deer tick.
Here at CHI St. Joseph’s Health we want you to enjoy the outdoors safely. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you understand woodticks, prevent bites, and know what to do if you find one attached.
What are Woodticks and Why Should I Be Concerned?
Woodticks are small, brown, eight-legged creatures that feed on the blood of animals and humans. They are commonly found in wooded areas, tall grasses, and brush. While not all woodticks carry diseases, they can transmit illnesses like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Tularemia.
Prevention is Key: Protecting Yourself from Woodtick Bites
The best way to avoid tick-borne illnesses is to prevent tick bites in the first place. Here are some simple steps you can take:
- Wear Protective Clothing: When venturing into tick-prone areas, wear long sleeves, long pants tucked into socks or boots, and a hat. Light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks.
- Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or permethrin according to the product instructions. Treat clothing with permethrin for added protection.
- Stay on Marked Trails: Stick to well-maintained trails and avoid walking through tall grass and brush.
- Check Yourself and Your Pets Regularly: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks. Pay close attention to areas like the hairline, ears, armpits, groin, and behind the knees.
- Shower After Being Outdoors: Showering within two hours of being outdoors can help wash off unattached ticks and make it easier to find any that may have attached.
- Maintain Your Yard: Keep your lawn mowed and clear brush and leaf litter to reduce tick habitats around your home.
Found a Woodtick? Here’s What to Do:
If you find a tick attached to your skin, don’t panic! Here’s how to remove it safely:
- Use Fine-Tipped Tweezers: Grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.
- Pull Upward with Steady, Even Pressure: Avoid twisting or jerking the tick, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin.
- Clean the Area: After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
- Dispose of the Tick: Place the tick in a sealed bag or container, wrap it tightly in tape, or flush it down the toilet.
- Monitor for Symptoms: Watch for any signs of illness, such as fever, rash, headache, or muscle aches, in the weeks following the bite.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
While most tick bites are harmless, it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms after a tick bite:
A rash, especially a bullseye-shaped rash (a common sign of Lyme disease)
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Joint pain
Fatigue
If you are concerned about a tick bite or experience any of these symptoms, please contact your primary care physician or visit CHI St. Joseph’s Health Primary Care Clinic. We are here to help you stay healthy and enjoy the outdoors safely.
We are committed to providing you with the best possible care. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy the beauty of the season! Call us at 218.616.3900 or visit our website chisjh.org.