You Won’t Be Happy To Hear That Colorado Is Experiencing A Major Surge Of Ticks This Year

Our cold and wet winter set up prime conditions for mosquitos and ticks to flourish. To make matters worse, the predicted warm and dry summer will also allow these insects to thrive throughout the season, meaning you’ll need to be extra aware and prepared for outdoor adventures this year.

The National Institutes of Health recommends wearing clothing that covers your arms and legs (especially if you’ll be around brush and shrubs), using insect repellants containing DEET, and thoroughly checking for ticks before going inside. Wearing light-colored clothing can make it easier to spot them, as they tend to blend into darker colors. Even the tiniest of ticks can carry diseases. Don’t forget to check your pets too!

If you find a tick attached to your skin, the CDC recommends removing it using fine-tipped tweezers as soon as possible. Grab it as close to your skin as possible and don't jerk or twist it, just pull upwards steadily. Despite how tempting it may be, don't squish ticks with your fingers - this can also spread the diseases they carry. Make sure to clean the area around the bite with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.

If you've been bitten by a tick, keep a close eye out for symptoms of Lyme disease. If you experience a fever, have headaches, feel fatigued, or notice a distinctive bull’s eye rash around the bite, see a doctor as soon as possible.