Ticks are the most well-known carriers of Lyme Disease. Usually, you would assume that you can only get a tick while in the woods, however, these pests are also found closer to beaches. This means that summer family trip to the lake could lead you to deal with these annoying pests. To help you stay alert to the dangers of ticks and Lyme disease, we are here to make sure that all residents of the Fairview Heights, IL area are aware of how risky these pests can be.
Where Are Ticks Found?
Ticks themselves are no more than annoying pests. However, with the dangers that Lyme disease brings into the mix, they become even more dangerous than you think. Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi, and sometimes by Borrelia mayonii. These types of bacteria are carried by blacklegged ticks and are spread when the tick bites the skin in search of human blood. The blacklegged tick is also commonly referred to as the deer tick, are commonly found around the United States, including here in the Midwest. These pests thrive during the spring and summer seasons, and that is when the rate of infection of Lyme tends to be at its highest.
What Are The Odds of Getting Lyme Disease from a Tick?
Ticks carry the specific bacteria that causes Lyme in their own blood, and when they are attached and feed on your skin, they can pass the disease onto you. The good news is that not every tick carries this disease. Before a tick can transmit the disease to you, it has to first get the infection from biting another infected animal. This typically is either a mouse or a deer, however, there are a variety of other possible infected animals including:
- Mice
- Deer
- Squirrels
- Voles
What Are the Best Ways to Prevent Lyme Disease?
The best way to avoid this disease is by preventing tick bites. This does not mean that you need to stop going outside and enjoying the warm weather. However, there are some precautions that you should take when you are outside in order to prevent tick bites. Some of these include:
- Wearing Pants & Long Sleeves If Possible
- Use Insect Repellent
- Avoid Walking Through Grassy & Brushy Areas
- Check Clothes, Gear, & Body for Ticks
- Wash & Dry Clothes on High Heat
- Shower Within 2 Hours of Being Outdoors
If you are unsure if your home’s yard has ticks, or if you want to learn more information about these pests, give our team at IMEL Pest Control a call today!
