Protecting Yourself Against Tick Bites And Managing Tick Bites In Alberta

Lorna Hamilton Editor

Tick bites can lead to various health concerns, including Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. In Alberta, where ticks are prevalent (even more so this year) it’s essential to take preventive measures to avoid tick bites and know what steps to take if you find yourself bitten. In this article you will find valuable information on preventing tick bites and guidance on how to handle tick bites if they occur.

Preventing Tick Bites:

Wear appropriate clothing: When venturing into tick-prone areas such as tall grass, forests, or shrubby areas, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Tuck your pants into your socks or boots to minimize exposure.

Use insect repellents: Apply Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)registered insect repellents containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) to exposed skin and clothing. Follow the instructions on the product label and reapply as needed.

Conduct regular tick checks: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check your body, including your scalp, underarms, groin, and behind the knees, for any ticks. Prompt removal reduces the risk of disease transmission.

Create a tick-safe environment: Keep your yard tidy by regularly mowing the grass, clearing leaf litter, and trimming shrubs. Consider creating a barrier of wood chips or gravel between your lawn and wooded areas to deter ticks.

Protect your pets: Apply tick prevention products recommended by your veterinarian to your pets, as they can carry ticks indoors. Regularly check your pets for ticks and remove them promptly if found.

Dealing with Tick Bites: Remove the tick promptly: If you find a tick attached to your skin, use finetipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Gently pull upward with steady pressure, without twisting or jerking. Clean the bite area with soap and water or disinfectant.

Preserve the tick: Place the tick in a sealed container or a plastic bag. If you develop symptoms later, having the tick available for identification or testing can assist healthcare professionals in making an accurate diagnosis.

Monitor for symptoms: Keep an eye on the bite site for any signs of a tick-borne illness, such as a rash, flulike symptoms, fever, muscle aches, or joint pain. If symptoms appear, consult a healthcare professional immediately. Seek medical attention if necessary: If you experience symptoms or are unsure whether you removed the tick entirely, consult a healthcare professional. They can assess the risk of infection and provide appropriate treatment if needed.