Summer rain and high temperatures are welcome conditions to promote growth of crops and landscape plants, but the same conditions are ideal for a dangerous arachnid hiding in vegetation. There are numerous species of ticks that inhabit Northwest Florida and although their primary natural hosts run from lizards, mice, rabbits, and deer they will happily take advantage of a passing human for a blood meal. Although the amount of blood consumed by these tiny creatures is insignificant to a 150-pound person, the danger lies in the tick’s potential to transmit disease pathogens.
What is a tick-borne disease?
While feeding, an infected tick can pass viruses, bacteria, and parasites that cause disease in humans. Particular species of ticks are capable of transmitting specific pathogens, and the amount of feeding time needed to pass along the pathogen varies among tick species and life stage. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), tick-borne disease causing pathogen transmission can occur in as few as 10 minutes or take several hours.
Thankfully, not every tick is a carrier and the number of tick-borne illnesses in this region is lower than in other parts of the country, however, these are not reasons to let your guard down. For farmers and ranchers staying indoors and avoiding tick habitat is not practical, so instead let’s look at some ways to minimize exposure and reduce risk.
Avoiding Tick Bites
Pastures with tall grass and field edges with brushy vegetation are prime spots for ticks looking for a host. When you know you will be in these types of habitats, dress in light colored clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Apply an EPA registered insect repellent labeled for tick prevention to exposed skin; if you will also be applying sunscreen, apply that product before applying the insect repellent. Clothing can also be treated with the repellent permethrin. Follow all pesticide label instructions on these products, paying special attention to age restrictions for children.
Scout your skin, gear, clothing, and pets often for ticks – remembering that some are smaller than a seed! Check again when you get home paying particular attention to favorite hiding places such as behind the knees, around the waist, groin, inside your belly button, armpits, in and around ears and hair. Take a warm, soapy shower and wash hair as soon as possible to dislodge unattached ticks you may have missed.
Tick Removal
If you find a tick attached, it is important to remove it as soon as possible to break the transmission cycle. Proper removal procedures can be found here https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/after-a-tick-bite/index.html
The Tick App by Texas A&M AgriLife can help you identify the tick or you can reach out to your local Extension office for assistance. Monitor yourself for symptoms and if you suspect a tick-borne illness contact your healthcare provider.
More Information
Interested in a close-up look at how ticks find their hosts and attach? Check out this detailed video!
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