Now that summer is here we need to be alert about ticks and the diseases that they carry. Unfortunately we cannot say we are too far north etc. because they are here.

According to CDC (Center for Disease Control) here is a list of diseases you can get from ticks:

Babesiosis

Ehrlichiosis

Lyme disease

Rocky Mountain spotted fever

Southern Tick-associated rash illness

Tick borne relapsing fever

Tularemia

Ticks are so small but they thrive off animals and people to live. Walking in a wooded area and brushing up against infected vegetation is one way of getting ticks and getting bit.

Use DEET repellent on skin or clothing, and / or Permethrin on clothing to help prevent them from attaching themselves to you. Wear long pants with socks and long sleeve shirts to help prevent bites. Permethrin can be used on camping equipment, boots, and clothing and is effective for several washings. Warning: Parents should apply the product to their child’s clothing.

Wear light colored clothing to see the ticks easily and tuck your pant legs into your socks so they cannot crawl up your pant leg.

Pets that run around outside and come into contact with family can transmit ticks from them to you and your family.

Check these areas on your pets, children or yourself daily:

Under the arms

In and around the ears

Inside the belly button

Back of the knees

In and around hairline

Between the legs

Around the waist

Ticks that are found can be removed with tweezers. Grab the body of the tick close to the skin and pull the tick off. You may then flush the tick down the toilet. Clothing may be placed in the dryer where the intense heat will kill them.

Watch for signs of fever or a rash and see a doctor right away.

See web site for further information.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Stop Ticks

http://www.cdc.gov/Features/StopTicks/

Or call or e-mail

julia.jacobs@srmt-nsn.gov

Julia Jacobs

SRMT Environmental Outreach

518-358-5937 ext: 126

St. Regis Mohawk Tribe

Helping Build a Better Tomorrow