As warmer weather arrives, ticks are becoming more prevalent in green spaces like parks and trails, prompting health officials to urge caution when walking in these areas. Ticks feed on the blood of animals and sometimes humans, and can pose health risks.
While contracting a tick-borne illness is uncommon, several diseases can be transmitted by ticks, depending on location. In California, Lyme disease is the most frequently reported, according to Jesús Torres, a physician at UCLA.
Lyme disease can cause fever, fatigue, and joint problems. This parasitic infection can also lead to “Rocky Mountain spotted fever,” a potentially severe illness if left untreated, and “anaplasmosis,” which presents with flu-like symptoms.
Preventing tick bites involves taking proactive measures. “Wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and avoid touching vegetation, tall grasses, and trees,” Torres advised. “You can also use a spray containing DEET, a chemical repellent.”
How to Prevent a Tick Bite
The risk of disease transmission increases if a tick remains attached to the skin for more than 24 hours, Torres explained. It’s important to be vigilant, as ticks can hide in inconspicuous places.
“Ticks can hide in your hair, behind your ears, in your armpits, and in your groin area,” Torres said. “They can also be found behind your knees.”
it’s recommended to shake out your clothing and thoroughly check your body, your children’s bodies, and your pets before entering your car or home. Using a repellent is also advisable, even if you don’t believe ticks are present in the area you’re visiting, as a precautionary measure. These preventative steps are crucial for minimizing the risk of tick-borne illnesses and protecting public health.
