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About Ticks

Ticks are more than just creepy crawlies—they are notorious pests that pose a significant health threat to people and pets. As temperatures rise and we spend more time outdoors, understanding these tiny invaders is crucial for staying safe.

 

What Are Ticks and Where Do They Live?

Ticks are arachnids, related to spiders and mites, and are obligate parasites, meaning they must feed on blood to survive. They don't jump or fly; instead, they cling to hosts (humans or animals) as they brush past vegetation.

Common Habitats:

• Wooded and Grassy Areas: Ticks thrive in tall grasses, dense shrubs, leaf litter, and heavily wooded environments.

• Backyards: Even well-maintained lawns and gardens, especially areas bordering natural landscapes, can harbour ticks.

• Wildlife Access Points: Anywhere deer, rodents, or other wildlife frequent, ticks are likely present.

 

Tick-Borne Diseases

The primary threat from ticks is their ability to transmit pathogens that cause serious illnesses. A tick must usually be attached and feeding for a period (often 24-48 hours) before it can transmit most infections, which is why prompt removal is so necessary.

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Common Diseases Transmitted by Ticks​

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• Lyme Disease: The most widely known illness, characterised by a bull's-eye rash (though not always present), fever, fatigue, and if untreated, can lead to joint, heart, and nervous system problems.

• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF): A potentially severe illness causing fever, headache, and a rash.

• Ehrlichiosis and Anaplasmosis: Bacterial infections with flu-like symptoms that can be serious if not treated.

• Other Regional Illnesses: Depending on your location, ticks can transmit various other pathogens.

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1. Personal Protection

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• Wear Appropriate Clothing: When hiking or working in tall grass, wear long sleeves and pants. Tuck your pants into your socks to create a barrier.

• Use Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET (for skin) or Permethrin (for clothing and gear) according to product instructions.

• Stick to Trails: Try to walk in the centre of trails and avoid brushing against dense vegetation.

 

2. The Crucial Tick Check

Perform a thorough tick check on yourself, your children, and your pets every time you come inside after being outdoors, especially after visiting wooded or grassy areas.

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• Focus Areas: Ticks often prefer warm, hidden spots:

  • Behind the ears and in the hair/scalp.

  • Under the arms.

  • In and around the belly button.

  • Behind the knees.

  • Between the legs and around the groin.

 

3. Pet Protection

• Vet-Recommended Products: Use veterinarian-approved tick prevention products (collars, spot-ons, or oral medications).

• Daily Checks: Check your pets daily, particularly after they've been outside.

 

What to Do If You Find an Attached Tick

Do NOT panic, squeeze the tick, or use folk remedies like petroleum jelly, nail polish, or a lit match, as these can cause the tick to burrow deeper or release more fluid.

Safe Removal Steps:

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1. Grasp Firmly: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible.

2. Pull Straight Up: Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Do not twist or jerk, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off in the skin.

3. Clean the Area: Thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.

4. Monitor the bite area for several weeks for any signs of a rash or flu-like symptoms. Contact your doctor immediately if these appear.

 

Yard Management for Tick Control

 

Reducing tick habitat on your property can significantly lower your risk:

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• Keep Grass Short: Mow your lawn frequently.

• Clear Debris: Remove leaf litter, brush, and trash from the yard.

• Create Barriers: Place wood chips or gravel between wooded areas and your lawn to discourage tick migration.​

 

By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly minimise your risk and enjoy the outdoors safely.