During this time of year, people begin asking questions about ticks and tick-borne illnesses. With more people spending time outdoors, there are more opportunities to be exposed to ticks, which can invoke fear. Let’s take a look at 3 common misconceptions about ticks. 

1.

Myth: The best way to remove a tick is with a lit match. 

Truth: Using tweezers is actually the most effective and safe way to remove a tick. Safely grasp the body of the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it out with a forceful motion. Make sure to clean the skin and dispose safely of the tick after removing it. For more tick removal tips, click here. 

2.

Myth: Ticks are only a problem in wooded areas with trees. 

Truth: Ticks live on the ground and migrate upward into the trees. That’s why you find them on scalps and close to the ears,  but they’re not only found in wooded areas.

3.

Myth: All ticks carry Lyme disease. 

Truth: Most people panic immediately when they are infected by a tick because they think that they also have Lyme disease. Some ticks carry no diseases at all, while others carry less commonly known diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever and ehrlichiosis. Here are a few tips for keeping your family safe from ticks this summer. 

We don’t want to scare you! We just want to make sure that you are well-informed to keep your family and animals safe from ticks. If you have any questions about ticks or any other pests, feel free to reach out to us here.