Folks,

You all know that the ticks are bad this year. I think its related to the water and heat we are seeing. So here is a quick link to a CDC site I use to remind myself how to lower the exposure to them and deal with one should it connect with you.

 

The CDC advice is here : Stop Ticks to Avoid Lyme and Other Tickborne Diseases

 

Note that the technique for removal is important. By pulling them away from you around their head areas you are less apt to squeeze their stomach contents back into you. So notice the diagram in the article about removal.

 

Now I have always been curious how they get on you. I actually saw one run up a board I was reaching for and do a springing back flip right on to my pants from around 2 feet away. That was amazing to see and I never realized they actually jump at you. 

 

I can tell you that the DEET sprays really do work. In another experiment I saw them literally run away from an area I sprayed with a deterrent. 

 

Now we are one of the neighbors who encourage deer to come visit with us. Deer are one of the major carriers of the blacklegged tick which is a primary host for Lyme disease. Mice are also a significant carrier. I worry a little less about this because the primary area these are found and Lyme disease is prominent is in the Northeast and Midwest. I still would not go hug a deer but worry less about Lyme disease here in the south.

 

So use that bug spray and look for the little buggers when you work outside.

 

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