Let’s Talk Ticks
BY DR. RADHA MIKKILINENI, MD (FB)
UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
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Ticks, those minuscule vampires of the natural world, can lurk in high brush, wooded areas, and wherever deer roam. Gardeners are also at risk, especially when tending non-native plants. They are alive and well even after the first frost. To shield yourself from these tiny menaces, follow these prevention tips:
- Permethrin Treated Clothing:
Invest in clothing treated with permethrin, but ensure it’s designed for this purpose and contains no more than 0.5% concentration.
Don’t forget to spray your shoes and socks monthly starting in the spring.
Reapply the treatment every six weeks or after six washings.
- Skin-Based Repellents:
For skin protection, opt for repellents containing either Deet (25%) or Picaridin (20%)
Picaridin is favored for its less pungent odor.
- Lyme Disease Awareness:
Approximately 25% of ticks carry Lyme disease-causing bacteria. However, they typically need about two days of feeding to transmit disease.
Ticks thrive in water, so DRY clothes for 15 minutes on high heat before putting them in t the washing machine.
- Regular Tick Checks:
Conduct thorough tick checks regularly, paying close attention to less-examined areas like between the legs, under the arms, behind the ears, and the scalp. When not feeding and early on, ticks are poppy seed-sized!
- Safe Tick Removal:
If you discover a tick, it is crucial to remove it intact. Seek assistance from a board-certified dermatologist for proper tick removal, identification, and evaluation for additional testing or treatment based on the tick type.
- Protect Your Pets:
Don’t overlook your furry companions; they can carry ticks indoors, potentially putting the entire family at risk.
Proactive prevention is key in the battle against these tiny yet formidable foes. Protect yourself, your loved ones, and your pets to minimize the risks of ticks and tick-borne diseases.
Skinsage Team recommendations for best anti-tick products:
- Sawyer Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing and Gear: https://amzn.to/3PoRARt (AMAZON)
- Ranger Ready Picaridin Spray: https://amzn.to/3PoSKfN(AMAZON)
- Cutter Backwoods Dry, DEET based:https://amzn.to/3EI3Yav(AMAZON)
