If you ask the team at Cancer Sherpa what our golden rules for summer are, you’d get the same answers across the board: bug spray and SPF. Basically part of our company values, our founder Clare Matschullat reminds us (frequently!) of the perils of sun damage and bug bites – citing her own health experiences as proof. We won’t call it a scare tactic, but let’s just say you want to be extra careful in tick-ridden environments.
Here’s the deal. Ticks carry bacteria that can cause Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and a whole host of other tick-borne diseases. Lately, we’ve been hearing about some new diseases popping up, and those aforementioned ones are on the rise (CDC). Illness-causing ticks can be found in all 50 states, making awareness important for everyone in the U.S.
Tick 101
- Ticks range in size from as small as a poppy seed (a freckle) to as large as a sesame seed (a mole)
- Expect to find ticks in grassy, brushy, and wooded areas, as well as on the animals that frequent them (this includes your pets)
- You should be extra cautious when engaging in activities like camping, hiking, and even gardening
- If you find a tick on yourself or your pet, follow the CDC’s guide for removing it
How to protect yourself
- Use insect repellent. You can use the EPA’s insect repellant search tool to find the right option for you and your family. Be sure to follow the product instructions carefully
- Treat clothing (including camping and hiking gear, even your boots) with 0.5% permethrin, which should remain protective through several wash cycles
- Make sure your pets are protected with tick prevention products (if applicable). Check them daily, especially after they’ve spent time outside (CDC). If you find a tick, remove it immediately
A few simple steps go a long way when it comes to staying safe from tick-borne diseases, so make bug spray and tick checks part of your family’s summer checklist
Questions? We’re here to help – contact our team today.