You Won’t Be Happy To Hear That Missouri Is Experiencing A Major Surge Of Ticks This Year
Who’s excited that the warm weather is finally here to stay? Now we can spend all of our free time outdoors – hiking at state parks, visiting waterfalls, and hanging out in our yards. But, despite all of the benefits of the warm weather, we also have to deal with some down sides, particularly the threat of ticks. Missouri has seen an increase in ticks – and tick-related illnesses – in recent years. And, this year likely won’t be much different.
Wet conditions typically provide ideal conditions for ticks to breed. And, predators, like opossums, that kill ticks will seek dry spaces for shelter instead of eliminating the pests.
Of course, none of us wants to be bitten by a tick, so we must know what conditions are ideal breeding grounds for ticks and how we can protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our pets from these potentially dangerous arachnids.
Wet weather and humidity combine to attract ticks. Try to avoid areas that are wet or thick with brush or grass. Say, for example, you’re on a hike through a state park. Remain on the marked path instead of venturing into the wooded areas, where you’ll be at an increased likelihood of getting bit by a tick.
You can also prevent ticks at home by keeping your yard trimmed, by pulling out weeds, and by not leaving water sitting around. Still have leaves on the ground? Rake them. Ticks also burrow in the leaves on the ground.
Have opossums living in or visiting your yard? Count yourself lucky! The harmless opossums kill unwanted pests, including as many as 5,000 ticks a week.
And, before you head outdoors, use an EPA-approved bug repellent that will protect you from ticks.
Click here for advice on how to choose a bug repellent.
Experts also recommend wearing long pants, long sleeves, and shoes to avoid exposure to ticks, especially if you’re going to be in wooded or brushy areas and areas where the grass is high.
When you come inside, check all over to see if any ticks have attached themselves to you. Then, do the same with your children and pets. If you see a tick, remove it with tweezers immediately and, if you think you’ve been bitten, seek help from a doctor immediately.
Click here for more information from the CDC on ticks and how to protect yourself, your family, and your pets from them. And, go here for information from Missouri Health & Senior Services.
