The City is reminding residents that while they are getting outside more as the weather warms up, to be aware not only of preventing mosquito-borne illness, but tick-borne illness as well.
Lyme Disease is the most common vector-borne illness in the U.S. and can be easily treated with antibiotics but left untreated (and the painless bites often go unnoticed), it can affect the skin, joints, nervous system, heart and eyes.
Here are some prevention tips from the Lyme Disease Association:
- Know where to expect ticks and be aware in high risk habitats. Ticks are most likely to be in woods, tall brush/grass, under leaves, under ground cover (low growing vegetation), near stone walls or wood piles, shady areas, around bird feeders and outside pet areas.
- When in high-risk areas, consider using DEET-containing products for skin and permethrin for clothes
- Do “tick checks” on yourself and pets and continue the checks 2-3 days after outdoor activities
Website: www.lymediseaseassociation.org
Website: www.texaslymealliance.net
