Warmer weather during the summer is considered the most active season for ticks. Two things usually come to mind when people think about ticks. First, they give most people the creepy-crawlies. Second, they dig in and suck blood until they’re extremely engorged. These statements are, in fact, true.
However, deer ticks are especially concerning, in particular. And there are quite a few of them out and about. Consider reading the following facts about deer ticks to stay safe, and keep those you love safe as well!
They Spread Lyme Disease
Are deer ticks dangerous? Well, deer ticks are renowned for spreading the illness known as Lyme disease. It’s an affliction that can bring about various serious health problems, and can be fatal. Symptoms include facial paralysis, severe headaches, fever, arthritis, neurological disorders, and heart palpitations.
Deer Ticks have Limited Mobility
Luckily, deer ticks are very limited when it comes to mobility. They can’t fly or jump, and they’re very slow. They usually perch themselves atop a branch, leaf, or blade of grass, and wait for a host to brush against them. That’s when they latch on and refuse to let go.
They Survive the Cold
Unlike many other bugs, like mosquitos, deer ticks can survive and remain active through winter. They can even survive freezing temperatures, snow and all! Keep this in mind if you’re intent on hiking in the winter, and consider proper lawn care too.
Disease Transmission is Slow
Good news! Deer ticks might spread Lyme disease, but they do so very slowly. In fact, you have around 24 hours to remove a tick after it bites to avoid infection. This is because the bacteria that causes the affliction doesn’t reach the tick’s saliva until after 24 hours!
You Won’t Always Get a Rash
Around 20% of individuals that get Lyme disease won’t show symptoms of a rash, one of many signs of deer tick bite. This is a serious problem, as most of the other symptoms are also present in afflictions like the flu. This can cause a misdiagnosis, and lead to improper treatment. So, it’s important to check your body for ticks as frequently as possible.
How to Avoid Deer Ticks
Avoiding deer ticks, and the illnesses that come with them doesn’t require much effort. It’s all about picking out the right clothing for hikes and keeping a close eye on the shrubbery and grass near your home. This includes tree and shrub care, pest control, and turf care.
When out and about, make sure you also avoid leg contact with plants on the ground as much as possible. And, after every outdoor adventure, check your body for ticks in the shower.
Interesting Facts about Deer Ticks
While relatively fascinating to some, deer ticks can present some serious problems for their hosts. They’re responsible for spreading Lyme disease across a variety of animals, and can even spread other bacterial infections. Luckily, transmission is slow and you can avoid them with some professional help at your home and in your area.