This summer ticks will be very numerous. Most tick bites are harmless, but ticks can spread disease. This risk can be minimized if they are removed within 12 hours, therefore regular “tick-checks” are important. Their favorite areas to bite are the back of the neck, armpit, groin and warm, soft areas! Removal should be done with tweezers between the tick head and skin exerting gentle outward pressure. If a tick bites someone in your family, you should watch for the following symptoms:
Lyme Disease
- A rapid expanding rash beginning where the tick bite occurred
- Flu like symptoms, including fever, chills, headache, stiff neck, minor aches and pains, and sore throat
- Constant tiredness and feeling “sick”
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
- Sudden onset of high fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, severe headache, extreme exhaustion, and muscle pain
- A rash that usually begins at the ankles or wrists and spreads upward
These symptoms usually occur 2-14 days after a tick bite. If you notice these or any other unusual symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately. Have fun, but remember to check for ticks.