As temperatures warm out comes insects including ticks, Allegheny Health Network has provided some tips to prevent Lyme disease.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Health, Lyme disease is the most common reported tickborne disease.
The most common time to be diagnosed is late spring and early summer due to ticks being smaller during that time period and larger in the late summer.
To prevent a trip to the hospital AHN has provided these tips:
- Avoid unnecessary exposure to grassy and wooded areas
- Use insect repellents containing DEET on exposed skin, and apply permethrin to clothing when anticipating prolonged outdoor exposure.
- Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, long pants, and socks, to limit direct skin contact.
- Shower as soon as possible after outdoor activities
- Perform tick checks, paying special attention to the scalp, behind the knees, under the arms, and other hard‑to‑see areas.
Finally, if you ever bitten by a tick you’re recommended to immediately remove the tick and seek medical attention.
