Ticks are a growing problem for humans and livestock. They can transmit a variety of diseases, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis.
Ticks are small, parasitic arachnids that feed on the blood of animals. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and even your own backyard.
Ticks attach to their hosts by inserting their barbed mouthparts into the skin. Once attached, they feed for several days or weeks, depending on the species.
Ticks can transmit diseases through their saliva. When a tick bites an infected animal, it can transfer the disease-causing bacteria or virus to the new host.
Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne disease in the United States. It is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. Symptoms of Lyme disease can include fever, headache, fatigue, and a rash that looks like a bull's-eye. Rocky Mountain spotted fever is another serious tick-borne disease. It is caused by the bacterium Rickettsia rickettsii. Symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever can include fever, headache, rash, and muscle pain.
Ehrlichiosis is a less common tick-borne disease. It is caused by the bacterium Ehrlichia chaffeensis. Symptoms of ehrlichiosis can include fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle pain.
There are a number of things you can do to protect yourself from ticks:
- Wear long sleeves and pants when you are in tick-infested areas.
- Use insect repellent that contains DEET or Picaridin.
- Check yourself and your pets for ticks after being outdoors.
- Remove ticks promptly if you find them.
If you are bitten by a tick, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early diagnosis and treatment of tick-borne diseases is important to prevent serious complications.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-erikkarits
Categories: Ohio, Livestock, Rural Lifestyle