Summer brings threat of ticks and disease

[Franky]

As warmer weather increases and people spend more time outdoors, state health officials remind people to be on the lookout for ticks that can cause Lyme disease and to take steps to protect themselves.

“Most people who develop Lyme disease in Wisconsin are exposed to infected ticks between May and August,” said Dr. Jim Kazmierczak, state public health veterinarian at the Department of Health and Family Services. “Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics and is treated more easily when detected early.”

One early symptom of Lyme disease is a characteristic “bulls-eye” rash, consisting of a reddened area, often with a clear area in the middle, at the original site of the tick bite.

“If someone lives in or has spent time in areas where deer ticks are common and develops symptoms such as fever, headache, chills, pain in the muscles or joints, enlarged lymph nodes or facial paralysis, they should immediately consult their health care provider,” Kazmierczak added.

Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria carried by deer ticks, which are found in many parts of the U.S., including Wisconsin. The disease can cause debilitating arthritis as well as serious heart and nervous system problems.

Preventive measures

# Avoid wooded and bushy areas with high grass and lots of leaf litter since ticks prefer these areas. Avoid brushing up against tall grass and shrubs.

# Use tick repellants and apply according to the label instructions. Adults should use repellants with 20 percent to 30 percent DEET on exposed skin and clothing to prevent tick bites.

# Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to help shield you from ticks.

# Frequently check for ticks — and remove them promptly. Ticks actually have to bite you and remain attached for at least 24 hours to transmit Lyme disease.

# Remove attached ticks slowly and gently, using a thin-bladed pair of tweezers. Avoid crushing the body of the tick by grasping them at the point of skin attachment.

# Protect pets from tick bites by checking them for ticks before bringing them inside. While there is a vaccine available for pets to prevent Lyme disease, it will not stop the animal from bringing ticks into the home.

# ON THE WEB: Log onto dhfs.wisconsin.gov/communicable/LymeDisease/index.htm for more information about Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases, or contact your local health department.

Information from the holmencourier.com