Most people associate ticks with dogs and cats, this is because they commonly attach themselves to your pets. However, ticks can attach themselves to humans and they are capable of transmitting a variety of diseases.
That’s why it’s essential that you click here and get in touch with your local expert. They’ll help you to understand the issue and deal with a tick problem.
What Are Ticks?
Ticks are about the size of a poppy seed and they feed off blood. They are not actually picky, they’ll drink the blood of mammals, reptiles, and birds. They usually live in the long grass. In fact, a tick can climb to the top of a blade of grass and sit there for months, waiting for something to walk by.
When a creature goes by and brushes against the grass the tick walks onto its body.
How They Transmit Disease
If you suspect you have a tick infestation it’s important that you call your local pest control company immediately. Ticks transmit a variety of diseases, including Lyme Disease.
The tick can’t jump, it comes into contact with your skin as you brush past the long grass. It will then crawl across your skin until it finds a spot where the blood vessels are near the service. At this point, it bites you and doesn’t let go.
Unfortunately, because they are so small you won’t notice the bite. The tick will then start sucking your blood, it needs the nutrients. During this process saliva can pass into your bloodstream, carrying disease with it.
The good news is that it can take as much as 24 hours for enough pathogens to get into your system to allow the illness to take hold. That’s why it’s essential to check yourself regularly. Removing a tick as quickly as possible can prevent them from passing on the disease.
How To Remove A Tick
If you grab the tick and pull you are likely to rip the tick off your body and leave the teeth part in your body. This will create an infection and increase the risk of a tick-borne disease getting into your body.
Instead, use small tweezers or a special tick tool. Grab the tick firmly as close to your skin as possible and pull gently. Don’t twist or squeeze it, the tick will release and you can put it in a bag with some alcohol. Seal the bag and dispose of it in the bin.
Preventing Tick Attacks
Being vigilant is the best way to prevent tick issues. If you’re walking through long grass make sure you have clothing on that covers your body. You should also check your skin every day to ensure there are no ticks. Pay particular attention to the sifter areas, such as under the arm and your groin.
You can also use a tick repellant spray that contains permethrin. This kills ticks.
If you do notice a tick bite, remove the tick and pay attention to the area. If it appears to be infected or you’re feeling unwell, get professional help.