Nature's Edge - Ticks - June 2004

Summer is tick season and care needs to be taken to protect ourselves from these insects and the diseases they can transmit. These insects are bloodsucking parasites and, therefore, have the opportunity to transmit disease to their host. The adult tick has a relatively flat body with tough skin and four pairs of legs. (The larvae have only three pairs of legs.) They range in size from .2 to 1 centimeter in size (a pinhead).

The most common disease which can be transmitted is lyme disease. However, other diseases such as encephalitis, spotted fever, relapsing fever, etc., can also be transmitted.

These insects are most common in natural areas – woodlands, perennials, grasses and shrubs. Note: ticks don’t just live in our forest preserves but can often be found in our own backyards. They are carried from place to place by animals or crawl about on their own. When not on a host, ticks position themselves on plants or other structures so that they can attach to a passing host. Once they find a host they quickly look for a warm place to attach themselves and feed. It is when they are feeding that they have the possibility of passing disease to their host.

A tick, in the nymph stage, is very small and can easily be overlooked. When an infected tick attaches itself to a host, it can transfer disease. The longer it is attached the more likely it is to transmit disease. This is why it is important to check yourself thoroughly after each possible encounter. Be sure, when removing a tick, to remove the entire insect. Head and mouthparts are easily separated if you are not careful– making them much more difficult to remove.

There are some simple tips which make spotting ticks easier. Wear light colored clothing so that ticks are easily seen and can be removed prior to reaching the body. Tuck pant legs into socks so that they do not brush on the ground or surround plant material – leaving an open pathway to bare legs and body. Apply insect repellent to socks and clothing to deter them from attaching.

Request the help of others to inspect your clothing or skin for any sign of ticks. If spotted, remove immediately. If attached remove slowly and carefully to be sure that all insect parts are removed. If you believe you have been infected, or have problems removing the entire tick, seek medical assistance.