As the weather gets warmer and residents spend more time outdoors, the Rockland County Department of Health reminds residents to protect themselves and their family from tick bites and tick-borne diseases. Ticks are most active in the spring, summer, and early fall, and the risk of encountering an infected tick in the Hudson Valley region remains high.

Tick-borne diseases found in New York State include Lyme Disease, the most common, as well as ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and the rare but serious Powassan virus.

“Simple preventative actions can greatly reduce your risk.” Early detection and treatment of tick-borne illness can make a significant difference,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health.

How to Protect Yourself from Tick Bites:

Avoid areas where ticks live:

• Stay on clear, well-traveled trails and walk in the center of the path.
• Avoid tall grass, brush, wooded areas, and leaf litter.
• Do not sit directly on the ground or stone walls.

Check for ticks often:

• Check clothing and exposed skin frequently while outdoors.
• Shower within two hours of coming indoors to help wash off ticks and make them easier to find.
• Do a full-body tick check at the end of the day.
• Look closely under arms, behind the knees, around the ears, and in the hair.
• Check children and pets thoroughly.

Remove ticks right away:

• Use fine-tipped tweezers to grab the tick close to your skin.
• Pull up slowly and steadily – do not twist or squeeze.
• Clean the bite area and your hands afterward.
• Get rid of the tick by placing it in alcohol, a sealed bag, tape, or by flushing it.
• Do not use petroleum jelly, heat, or other home remedies.

Wear protective clothing:

• Wear light-colored long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes.
• Tuck pants into socks and shirts into pants.
• Tie back long hair or wear a hat to reduce risk.

Use insect repellent:

• Use EPA-approved insect repellent and follow the directions on the label.

Monitor for Symptoms:

• A common sign of Lyme disease is a rash called often described as a “bullseye” or target-shaped mark where the tick bit them. But the rash can show up in different ways, some are red patches, others are blotchy, and sometimes there’s no rash at all, even if someone is infected.
• If you develop a rash, fever, or flu-like symptoms after a tick bite, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Early treatment is highly effective and helps prevent more serious complications.

For additional prevention tips and updated seasonal tick information, visit Rockland County Department of Health, New York State Department of Health, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).