A tick is a small parasite that is an offshoot of the arachnid family. These little monsters hide in tall grass or on bushes and attach themselves to whatever walks by, be it a deer, a dog, or a warm-blooded person. Most tick bites are harmless but many of these little suckers carry diseases, which they can transmit to us.

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From blood borne pathogens training, we know that ticks carry Rocky Spotted Yellow Fever and Lyme disease. Ticks can be found everywhere throughout America\’s outdoors and may be transmitted to people through their pets. They attach themselves in inconspicuous places of the human body like the scalp, folds of skin, the ankles, or the genitals. When found, they should be removed completely, taking care not to leave any part of them under the skin. A physicians help might be wise to make sure. In order to avoid being bitten, follow these steps.

– Avoid places where ticks can be found, like areas that are thickly wooded.

– In the warm months, like spring, summer, and late fall, use a bug spray when you go out.

– Light colored clothing should be worn when you do go out.

– Tuck your pant legs inside your boots and wear long sleeves. Leave as little exposed skin as possible and try not to let your head brush into limbs or bushes.

– Check you body thoroughly when you have been in an area that you suspect could have ticks.

If you find ticks on your body, remove them carefully.

– Using tweezers, grab the tick as close to your body as possible. Do not squeeze the body of the tick as this will increase chance of exposure to any blood borne pathogens it may carry. Pull the tick straight off with a steady pressure.

– Pull the tick off your body slowly; trying to make sure you get all if it.

– Use soap and water to clean the tiny wound before applying an antiseptic. Cover with a band-aid.

Lyme Disease

Small deer ticks are usually the Lyme disease culprits. These are common is early fall and summer. Once you have been bitten by an infected tick, symptoms can begin to present within three to 32 days. The majority of these are located in the Atlantic West Coast, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Oregon, and California however; there have been cases in 46 states.

Rocky Mountain Spotted-Fever

Another common disease transmitted to humans by wood ticks is Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. These cases show up in the West, and from dog and lone star ticks in the East and Southeast. This is a warm weather disease. The onset of symptoms is sudden and can occur two to 14 days following a tick bite. If you have been bitten by a tick, make sure that it is removed completely. It is wise to see your physician for blood work and treatment.

Prevention

The best cure is prevention, taking the precautions outlined in this article to prevent bites. There are yard treatments that you can use to treat your land and flea and tick collars for dogs and cats with access to exposed areas.

Author Bio: For more information please visit our HIPAA HITECH website.

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