The return of summer brings warm weather and outdoor activities. Warmer temperatures also mean the return of mosquitoes, and ticks. Mosquitoes can transmit illnesses such as West Nile virus and Malaria; ticks can transmit Lyme disease and other serious infections.
Mosquitoes bite primarily from dusk to dawn, but ticks are out at all times. Avoid tick-infested areas, such as high grass, leafy areas, as well as wooded areas. Covering your body is an easy way to avoid mosquito and ticks bites. A critical deterrent is to apply insect and tick repellent. Products containing at least 20% DEET can be used to help prevent mosquito and tick bites.
If you are out in these areas for an extended period of time, occasionally check your body for ticks. If you find an attached tick, it can easily be removed with a pair of fine-tipped tweezers.
“When it comes to a tick or mosquito bite, one must periodically check the bite to ensure no allergic reaction occurs,” said Dr. Kievers Cunningham, Emergency Department physician at McLeod Dillon.
Most of the population experiences a minor reaction to a bite, while the rest of the population may experience a more severe reaction. See your family physician if you develop rash, fever, body aches, stiff neck or other unusual symptoms within 1 – 3 weeks after a bite.