Tick Worries: What New Yorkers Need to Know

Emergency room visits for tick bites have hit a five-year high in the Northeast.

Tick Troubles on the Rise: What You Need to Know

Hey, let’s talk ticks. If you’re spending any time outdoors, you’ve probably noticed them, and maybe even found one on yourself. It turns out, this year is a big one for these tiny arachnids, with emergency room visits for tick bites reaching a five-year peak in the Northeast. So, how worried should you really be?

Are Ticks Worse This Year?

The short answer? Yes, ticks are indeed worse this year. This surge means a higher risk of encountering these eight-legged pests and, unfortunately, a greater chance of contracting tick-borne illnesses.

Protecting Yourself from Tick-Borne Diseases

Awareness and prevention are your best defenses against tick-borne illnesses. Understanding how to avoid tick bites and what to do if you find one is crucial for staying healthy.

• Emergency room visits for tick bites have increased significantly, particularly in the Northeast.
• Ticks are more prevalent this year, raising concerns about tick-borne diseases.
• Prevention strategies and proper tick removal are key to protecting yourself.

Understanding the Risks

Tick bites can transmit serious diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and anaplasmosis. Early detection and treatment are vital for managing these conditions.

Tick Removal: Do’s and Don’ts

If you discover a tick attached to your skin, it’s important to remove it correctly to minimize the risk of infection. The goal is to remove the entire tick, including its head.

Did you know? Using tweezers is the recommended method for removing a tick. Grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking the tick, as this can cause its mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin.

After removing the tick, clean the bite area and your hands thoroughly with soap and water. You can also use rubbing alcohol or an iodine scrub.

Preventative Measures

When heading outdoors, especially to wooded or grassy areas, take precautions. Wear long sleeves and pants, tuck your pants into your socks, and use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin.

Check your clothing and body for ticks after spending time outside. Pay special attention to areas like the groin, armpits, scalp, and behind your knees.

If you develop a rash or flu-like symptoms after a tick bite, consult a healthcare professional immediately. Prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes.