With summer now in full swing, many households may begin to see ticks in their local area. The peak season for ticks is just around the corner.
The hungry critters can transmit bacteria when they feed on blood, which can cause Lyme disease, which can become a serious condition if not diagnosed and treated. Wooded areas of the UK are the places that ticks are most commonly found, but over the last decase the population of ticks across the UK has significantly increased as there are now more than 22 species.
Ticks start becoming active at the start of spring until mid-autumn, and tend to feed on bats, birds and badgers. However, they can also attack family pets or even humans, and so have been dubbed a danger to public health and people are warned to be weary of the insect and now how to deal with them reports The Daily Record.
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Some of the the best things people can do to avoid ticks is to wear wellies instead of flip flops, choose light-coloured clothing and not to stray from main footpaths. Gardening experts at BillyOh.com said: “As the weather conditions improve, many Brits will be out enjoying the sun in grassy areas, where ticks are usually found.
“It’s vital to be educated on the risks of these tiny critters, as if you’re bitten and it’s not treated correctly, this can potentially result in serious consequences. Following a few simple tips can lower the risk of being bitten by a tick dramatically and prevent further health issues.”
Don't stray from the main path
Try to stick to main footpaths and avoid overhanging trees and shrubs, this is because ticks can't jump or fly, so if you stick to a clear area without loads of bushes will decrease the likeliness of being bitten. If you are somewhere without a main footpath, avoid walking through tall grass or shrubbery.
Wear light-coloured clothes
When in deeply-wooded areas, people should wear long sleeved tops and full-length trousers to minimise the area of attack. You should also protect the back of the knees, armpits and groin area the most as well.
Walkers should opt for light-coloured clothing in order to be able to identify the dark-coloured insects easier.
Keep your ankles covered
In high risk areas, you could also wear some wellies to keep your ankles away from the critters. Tucking trousers into socks is also a great defence mechanism if wellies are not an option.
Check for ticks often
Ticks are extremely small insects, and can be hard to spot if you aren't paying attention. You should check yourself and others regularly when outside, and have a once-over when home to remove any ticks that could already be feeding.
The longer a tick is left attached the harder it is to remove.
Avoid home remedies
Avoid any homemade remedies to get rid of ticks, like using Vaseline on the affected area, burning them off or using nail varnish. The best way to get rid of the insect is by using a tick removal tool.
This will help avoid aggravating the tick and lower the risk of secondary infection. When removed, use an antiseptic wipe and be aware of any symptoms of Lyme disease.
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