how to avoid ticks as diseases are on the rise

Boise, ID (KBOI) — According to the Center for Disease Control, the number of people nationwide getting infections from mosquitoes, fleas and ticks has tripled since 2004.

And with tick season in full swing up here in Boise, now is the time to make sure you're prepared before heading out on your next hike.

"May is one of the worst months for ticks," says Epidemiologist with the Central District Health Department Sarah Correll.

"As it gets warmer and warmer the ticks typically taper off, but this is one of the worst months."

Correll says, there are three main diseases spread by ticks here in Idaho.

"There's rocky mountain spotted fever, tularemia and tick borne relapsing fever," says Correll.

But even more concerning about these diseases, is a new report by the CDC, that says the number of people getting sick from bug bites is spreading rapidly.

Despite these growing numbers, there are ways to protect yourself and it starts before you even step out the door.

"Before you head out it's always good to wear long pants and a long sleeve shirt, there are great lightweight materials, you can even get them with Permethrin actually in the material to repel the ticks." Correll says.

Correll says there are pet friendly preventative options too from drops to tick repelling collars.

"All summer, but definitely this time of year, check your pets after you walk them," Correll says. "Check dogs carefully to make sure you've removed all the ticks."

Along with pets, always check yourself thoroughly right after spending time in high grass, or in tick infested areas such as forests and trails.

"It's important, as soon as you see them on yourself or your pets to get them off, firmly but gently pull them off with steady pressure," says Correll.

She says that even though ticks are visible, you may not feel them on your skin, so make sure to always check after coming indoors.

And always shower and wash your clothes immediately after.

"If you or your pet are bitten by a tick it's important to watch the site for redness or a spot."

If you do get sick, Correll says let your doctor or vet know about the tick bite.

Ticks can also make their way into your home on clothing and pets, then attach to a person later, so carefully make sure to not only examine your pets, but also coats, and even day packs.

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