If you live near wooded or rural areas, ticks are a common and potentially dangerous concern. These tiny arachnids feed on the blood of animals and humans, and though their bites are usually painless, they can transmit serious illnesses such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and babesiosis. Left untreated, these infections can cause long-term health issues, including joint pain, fatigue, and neurological problems.

The best way to protect yourself and your pets is through prevention. When spending time outdoors, wear long sleeves, long pants tucked into socks, and light-colored clothing to spot ticks more easily. Apply insect repellent containing DEET or permethrin, and always check your body, clothing, and pets for ticks after outdoor activities. While no method offers complete protection, consistent precautions and awareness greatly reduce your risk.

If you find a tick attached to your skin, remove it carefully using fine-tipped tweezers. Grip the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible and pull it out slowly and steadily without twisting or crushing it. Improper removal—such as squeezing the tick or using fingers—can cause parts of it to remain in the skin, increasing the chance of infection. After removal, clean the area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol. Dispose of the tick by sealing it in a bag, wrapping it in tissue before discarding, or flushing it down the toilet. If recommended by a doctor or veterinarian, save the tick in a container for identification. Pets are frequent tick hosts, so check them regularly, especially around the ears, neck, and between toes. Use vet-approved tick preventatives year-round. After any bite, watch for symptoms like fever, rash, fatigue, or joint pain, and seek medical attention if they occur. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing serious tick-borne diseases.