Tick Tips
From the Massachusetts Department of Public Health

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deer tick adults and nymphs may carry Lyme disease, babesiosis and ehrlichiosis. American dog ticks have not been shown to carry these diseases.

Ticks are found generally in a wooded habitat, near the ground. They may be active during any month, but late spring to early summer, and fall, are seasons of high risk.

Ticks may be seen readily on light-colored clothing.

Remove imbedded ticks promptly. Grasp the tick at the point of entry and pull back steadily, using tweezers. Avoid squeezing the body. Then, swab the site with antiseptic. Ticks usually need to be attached for 24-48 hours to transmit the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, protect yourself and your pets by using tick preventatives and doing tick checks.

If you suspect that you have Lyme disease, see your doctor. Symptoms vary, but may include flu, headache, joint aches and/ or a reddish circular rash.