NEW TICK DISCOVERED
Tick species are exploding in the U.S. with a new species that was identified in seven states in recent months. The Asian longhorned tick, native to Asia, was first discovered in New Jersey last summer. This tick is known to carry a dangerous virus that kills 15% of the people it bites. According to John Aucott, MD, director of the Lyme Disease Research Center at Johns Hopkins University Medical Center, the Asian longhorned tick has only been found in a few places in the United States.
TICK PARALYSIS
Cases of disease spread by ticks has doubled since 2004 with climate changes fueling growth of the tick population. Dr. Aucott states the public should pay more attention to the actual ticks that are native to the United States such as deer ticks which can spread Lyme disease, Powassan virus, and anaplasmosis and tick paralysis. What is tick paralysis? It can be caused by several species of ticks, including deer ticks and dog ticks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that tick paralysis is a rare disease caused by a toxin in tick saliva. Once the tick is removed from the suspect, the paralysis symptoms usually subside within 24 hours.
TICK REMOVAL IS IMPORTANT
When a tick bites into a human or animal’s skin and begins feeding, it can transmit bacteria, viruses or parasites. This is why tick removal, as early as possible, is so important.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU FIND A TICK?
- Experts say it’s best to use a pair of pointy fine-tipped tweezers to grasp close to the skin and pull straight out.
- Remove the tick shortly after it attaches – resulting in a reduced chance of being infected
- Place the tick in a zip lock baggie in case you need to save for testing purposes or flush down the toilet
- Treat the bite with rubbing alcohol keeping an eye on the site for several weeks
- Recommendations for wearing long pants and using insect repellant when spending time outdoors is a good preventative
- Spray your clothing with a permethrin based spray which will cause the ticks to fall right off
- Protect your pets with a topical treatment that specifically treats for ticks
WHAT NOT TO DO?
- Do not try to suffocate or heat up a tick which can cause it to burrow deeper into the skin
- Grandmother’s remedies such as Vaseline, lighting a match or using essential oils are not successful elimination techniques
- Avoid folklore remedies such as painting the tick with nail polish
- Don’t crush a tick with your fingers
If you develop a rash or fever see your doctor. If you take precautions – you can still have a great time outdoors!
For more information or to schedule your free in-home pest control estimate call or text Buckaroo Pest Protection at 972-362-4026
