The greatest risk of Lyme disease is between the months of May and August when the blacklegged tick is in the nymphal stage. When walking the trails, always take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Helpful tips:
- Stay on trails and avoid overgrown brush and tall grass.
- Wear light-colored clothing so ticks can easily be seen.
- Check yourself, your children and your pets often for ticks.
- Wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, closed shoes with socks and a hat.
- Tuck your pants into your socks and your shirt into your pants.
- Use insect repellant containing DEET or permethrin.
- Shower after returning indoors and run clothes in a dryer on high heat to kill any ticks that may be on the clothing.
Symptoms of Lyme disease in the early stages include fatigue, fever, headache, and most often, a red bulls-eye rash. Lyme disease is treatable with antibiotics, but if left untreated can lead to complications. Always see a doctor if you see evidence of a tick bite.