Ticks
Ticks automatically come to mind when you think of the most dangerous summer bugs. But, ticks are technically arachnids, not insects, Campbell says. Still, you need to especially watch out for “hard ticks” which feed on humans and pets. Ticks can carry Lyme disease along with other diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, or tularemia, among others, according to Campbell. These diseases could result in rashes, fever, chills, and headaches. Plus, Lyme disease also affects joints along with the heart and nervous system if untreated.
How to protect yourself: Ticks can attach themselves to exposed skin so after time spent outdoors, it’s important to do a full body check for ticks. “Check children for ticks when they come into the house because it takes up to four hours, possibly longer, for the tick to start feeding,” Campbell says. It’s also a good idea to use tick repellents, tuck your pants into socks or boots while outdoors, and keep grass, weeds, and other debris piles low. Here is how to effectively protect yourself from ticks.
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