Friday, October 7, 2011

Prevent Tick Bites On Humans

Ticks can carry many diseases that make humans very sick, the most famous of which is Lyme disease from deer ticks. These small bugs reside in wooded areas, shrubs and other vegetation. Playing outside, hiking, camping and especially playing with pets can expose you to tick bites. Thankfully, a few bits of knowledge on keeping ticks at a distance can help you avoid bites and any tick-borne illnesses.


Instructions


1. Keep ticks away from your home by clearing away any brush or dead leaves in the area. Mow your lawn often to prevent tall grass, which is a great home for ticks. Using a tick collar or putting tick medicine on your pets will also help prevent ticks from entering the house.


2. Protect your body when in a wooded or grassy area. Wear a long-sleeved shirt, tucked into long pants that are tucked into socks and wear close-toed shoes or boots. Also wear light-colored clothing to easily spot any ticks that manage to cling to you.








3. Apply a bug spray with 10% to 30% DEET on your clothing and any exposed skin. Avoid mouth, hands and eyes, but make sure to cover the rest of your body.


4. Check your body for ticks after being outdoors. Look in your hair, under your arms, in the back of your knees, between your legs and in and around your ears. Use a mirror to see all parts of your body.

Tags: your body, tucked into