Tick-bite prevention for humans

Tick-bite prevention for humans

Avoid likely tick-infested areas such as wooded or weedy areas.

Tuck your pants into sock tops and boots.

Wear light-colored clothing to make it easier to find crawling ticks.

Use insect repellent containing an EPA- registered active ingredient and follow the directions on the package.

Check yourself, your children and pets frequently for ticks.

Keep yard and outdoor play areas well- mowed to discourage tick infestation.

Bathe or shower after exposure to tick habitats to wash off and more easily find ticks that may be crawling on you. Preferable within two hours.

How to remove a tick

Grasp the tick close to the skin. With steady pressure, pull the tick straight up and out. Shield fingers with a paper towel or use tweezers.

Do not twist or jerk the tick. This may cause the mouth parts to be left in the skin.

Do not crush or puncture the tick.

Do not use a flame or cigarette to remove a tick. This may cause the tick to burst and increase disease risk.

After removing a tick, thoroughly disinfect the bite site and wash hands with soap and water.

Sources: Mahoning County District Board of Health/ Ohio Department of Health