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June 6, 2023Pests

Protect Yourself from Lyme Disease This Summer

As the summer season arrives in Georgia, so does the increased risk of Lyme disease. Transmitted through tick bites, this infectious disease can cause significant health issues if left untreated.

However, by taking preventive measures, Georgia residents can minimize their exposure to ticks and safeguard their well-being. In this blog post, we will discuss essential tips and strategies to protect yourself from Lyme disease during the summer months in Georgia.

Know Your Enemy: Understanding Lyme Disease and Ticks

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. In Georgia, these ticks are most prevalent in wooded and grassy areas, making it crucial to be cautious during outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or gardening.

Dress Appropriately for Tick Prevention

When venturing outdoors, it’s essential to dress appropriately to minimize the risk of tick bites. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes to cover as much skin as possible. Tucking pants into socks or boots and wearing light-colored clothing can also help you spot ticks more easily. Additionally, consider applying insect repellents containing at least 20% DEET to exposed skin and clothing to further deter ticks.

Conduct Regular Tick Checks

Performing thorough tick checks is crucial, especially after spending time outdoors. Take a shower within two hours of coming indoors to wash away any unattached ticks. Carefully examine your entire body, including hidden areas like the scalp, behind the ears, and armpits. Remember to check your pets as well, as ticks can latch onto them and be brought into your home.

Create a Tick-Free Environment

Reducing tick populations in and around your property can significantly decrease your risk of Lyme disease. Keep your yard well-maintained by mowing the grass regularly, clearing leaf litter, and trimming shrubs. Consider creating a barrier between your lawn and wooded areas using wood chips or gravel, as ticks are less likely to cross these dry and sunny areas. Additionally, remove any potential tick habitats, such as old furniture, piles of wood, or debris, that may attract these pests.

Seek Professional Pest Control Assistance

If you find that ticks are a persistent problem in your Georgia home or yard, it is advisable to consult with professional pest control services. Experienced technicians can provide comprehensive tick control solutions tailored to your specific needs. They can employ targeted treatments, such as perimeter sprays and tick-repellent landscaping, to effectively reduce the tick population and safeguard your outdoor spaces.

Lyme disease is a serious concern during Georgia’s summer months, but by implementing these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of tick bites. By understanding the disease, dressing appropriately, conducting regular tick checks, maintaining a tick-free environment, and seeking professional assistance if needed, Georgia residents can enjoy their outdoor activities while keeping themselves protected. Remember, prevention is the key to enjoying a safe and tick-free summer!

Bug House Has Your Back

When you search for a reliable team to manage pests in and around your home, call the experts at Bug House. Our experts are always ready to get to the bottom of your pest problems and help you kickstart an effective, long-term solution for your home.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We proudly serve Bug House customers throughout Georgia in Augusta, Carrollton, Columbus, Dublin, Eastman, Forsyth, Lake Oconee, Macon, Madison, McDonough, Milledgeville, Monroe, Sandersville, Savannah, St. Simons, Warner Robins, and Watkinsville.