7 Ways to Prevent Tick Bites Year-Round – Ticks are tiny arachnids that latch onto their hosts and feed on blood. They’re commonly found in grassy and wooded areas, making outdoor activities potentially risky. Preventing tick bites not only keeps you safe from discomfort but also shields you from the potential health risks associated with tick-borne diseases.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Covering up is one of the most effective ways to prevent tick bites. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes when venturing into tick-prone areas. Tuck your pants into your socks and opt for light-colored clothing, which makes it easier to spot ticks.
Use Tick Repellent
Apply an EPA-approved tick repellent on exposed skin and clothing. Look for repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application and reapplication.
The CDC includes four additional insect-repellent components that might assist in warding off tick bites. However, specialists note that we possess limited data regarding their effectiveness. These ingredients are IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), and 2-undecanone.
Perform Regular Clothing and Body Checks
After being outdoors, make it a habit to thoroughly check your clothing and body for ticks. Pay special attention to warm and moist areas such as the armpits, groin, and scalp. If you find a tick, use fine-tipped tweezers to remove it gently, ensuring you grasp it as close to the skin’s surface as possible.
Create a Tick-Free Zone
Keep your outdoor living spaces tick-free by clearing tall grasses, brush, and leaves. Regular landscaping can minimize tick habitats in your yard. You can also install a barrier of wood chips or gravel between your lawn and wooded areas to discourage ticks from migrating.
Treat Your Pets
Ticks can latch onto pets and make their way indoors. Regularly inspect your pets for ticks and use veterinarian-recommended tick preventives. This reduces the chances of ticks being brought into your home.
Shower After Outdoor Activities
Taking a shower after spending time outdoors can help wash away any unattached ticks that might be on your body. Use a washcloth to thoroughly check for ticks, ensuring none are hiding.
Consider Permethrin-Treated Clothing
Permethrin is a synthetic chemical that repels and kills ticks. You can purchase pre-treated clothing or treat your own clothing with permethrin. Treated clothing remains effective even after multiple washes.
