66 Reported Cases of Lyme Disease in Tuscarawas County – The incoming warmer weather is a huge invitation for ticks to come out and play… Meaning you and your family have an increased risk of contracting Lyme Disease! Learn about how to prevent catching tick-borne illness right here on Newsymom!

This is Public Health is brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Health Department.

Ticks and Lyme disease pose a significant health risk to all residents of Tuscarawas County. With their abundance in wooded areas and outdoor spaces, it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers they present and take preventive measures to protect yourself and your loved ones.! Let’s discuss more about ticks and Lyme disease, as well as share valuable information on ticks and effective strategies for Lyme disease prevention.

Understanding Ticks and Lyme Disease:

Ticks are small arachnids that feed on the blood of animals and humans. They can transmit various diseases, with Lyme disease being the most common and concerning. Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is carried and transmitted by certain species of ticks, particularly the black-legged tick (also known as the deer tick).

Preventing Tick Bites:

1. Dress Appropriately: When venturing into areas where ticks are prevalent, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants tucked into socks, and closed-toe shoes. This reduces the exposed skin available for ticks to latch onto.
2. Use Tick Repellents: Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin and clothing. Follow the instructions carefully, especially when applying to children.
3. Perform Regular Tick Checks: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check your body and clothes for ticks. Pay close attention to hidden areas such as the scalp, underarms, groin, and behind the knees. Promptly remove any attached ticks using fine-tipped tweezers, grasping them as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight upward.

Creating Tick-Safe Outdoor Spaces:

1. Clear Vegetation: Break out the mowers and weed-whackers! Keep lawns and outdoor areas well-maintained by regularly mowing grass, trimming shrubs, and removing leaf litter. Ticks thrive in areas with high grass and vegetation.
2. Create a Tick Barrier: Consider creating a barrier between wooded areas and your lawn by installing a gravel or woodchip path. This helps reduce the chances of ticks migrating into your immediate living space. (And you get a reason to visit Home Depot for an outdoor upgrade.)
3. Protect Play Areas: If you have a backyard play area, consider placing it in a location away from densely wooded areas. Providing a protective barrier, such as a fence, can help minimize exposure to ticks.

Awareness and Education:

1. Spread Knowledge: Share information about ticks and Lyme disease prevention with your friends, family, and neighbors. The more people are aware of the risks and prevention methods, the better equipped they are to protect themselves.
2. Stay Informed: Stay updated on tick activity in your area. The Tuscarawas County Health Department provides valuable information about tick populations, high-risk areas, and other relevant alerts. If you live in a different county, check in with your local health department!

All Tuscarawas County residents must remain vigilant against ticks and the threat of Lyme disease. By following simple preventive measures such as wearing appropriate clothing, using repellents, conducting regular tick checks, and creating tick-safe outdoor spaces, you can significantly reduce the risk of tick bites.

Remember to stay informed and spread awareness within your community. One way you can do that is by following the Tuscarawas County Health Department on Facebook (@tchdnow). Additionally, if you feel like you need a check-up, call them at (330) 343-5555 x. 1000. They can assist by providing updated vaccines, do physicals, refer medical providers, and much more! Together, we can enjoy the outdoors safely and minimize the impact of ticks and Lyme disease in Tuscarawas County.

Resources:

• Be Tick Smart Brochure
• Lyme Disease

Melissa Klatt

Reporting