Recently, one of our coworkers came to the conclusion, after some research and chats with doctors, that he may have Lyme Disease from a tick bite from over 30 years ago. Lyme Disease can be contracted from Deer Ticks and other insects, so go prepared because it's Tick Season and we have some tips for you courtesy of the Iowa DNR.

What is a tick? Small arachnids that are ecto-parasites, or they go through the skin of the host and get nutrition from the blood. The most prevalent ticks in Iowa are deer ticks, dog ticks and lone star ticks.  Deer ticks are the ticks you need to pay attention to. They can carry the bacteria that causes Lyme Disease.

Use these tips to help avoid ticks:

Know when to prepare: In Iowa April - September are the most active months.

Know where they are: Ticks like thick wooded areas or prairies.

Protect yourself: Long sleeves and pants, light colored, will help you avoid tick bites.

Bug/Tick Repellant: Deet is your best bet, but will need to be reapplied.

Clean yourself: Showering immediately following your adventure will ensure that you won't stink..hahaha....but you'll be able to wash off ticks and see them too.

For more on how to avoid ticks, and how to remove them, Click HERE to get to the Iowa DNR Website.

 

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