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Carson City Health and Human Services has received numerous inquiries regarding ticks. In Nevada, ticks can transmit serious diseases such as Lyme disease, relapsing fever, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Colorado tick fever. These illnesses can be dangerous and can remain unnoticed for years. Residents who think they might have been bitten and notice any of these symptoms should contact a doctor right away. A tick bite may look like a small pinprick, a mosquito bite or a red ring around the bite.
In partnership with Carson City Parks, Recreation, and Open Space, here are nine ways for community members to ensure protection from themselves and pets from ticks:
• Educate yourself: Know where to expect ticks, what environment they thrive in and the symptoms of a tick bite.
• Check body, clothes and pets for ticks after being outdoors – use a mirror or have someone help check hard-to-see areas.
• Tuck pants into socks to minimize exposed skin and seal off areas where ticks can hide.
• Regularly apply repellent on any exposed areas of skin (follow label instructions).
• Walk on trails and avoid tall grass. Ticks hide in tall grass and brush. Avoiding these areas decreases exposure to ticks.
• Wear closed-toe shoes and light-colored clothing. Light-colored clothing allows one to spot ticks that might be attached to clothes.
• If someone or a pet is bitten by a tick, use tweezers to grab the tick and slowly pull upward. Immediately clean the area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol and reach out to a medical provider for medical attention.
• Speak to a veterinary clinic regarding a tick-preventative treatment for your pets.
• Keep pets secure to minimize exposure to high-tick areas (tall grass and brush).
For information about ticks, go to cdc.gov/ticks/index.html.