Lyme Disease Prevention

Deer ticks live in shady, moist areas at ground level. They will cling to tall grass, brush and shrubs, especially at the edges of woods and around old stonewalls, usually no more than 18-24 inches off the ground. Deer ticks get on humans and animals only by direct contact. They cannot jump or fly. Once a tick gets on the skin, it generally climbs upward until it reaches a protected area. Here are tips for protecting yourself and your family:

• Wear light-colored clothing.
• Wear enclosed shoes, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt.
• Tuck pant legs into socks or boots and shirt into pants.
• Check clothes and any exposed skin frequently for ticks while outdoors.
• Consider using insect repellent.
• Stay on clear, well-traveled trails. Walk in the center and avoid dense woods and bushy areas.
• Avoid sitting directly on the ground or on stonewalls.
• Keep long hair tied back.
• Bathe or shower as soon as possible after going indoors (preferably within two hours) to wash off and find more easily the ticks that may be on you.
• Do a final, full body tick check at the end of the day.
• Check children and pets and remove ticks promptly.

More Information

• Department of Health - How to properly remove a tick and Lyme Disease Information*
• CDC - Preventing Tick Bites*
• Lyme Disease Prevention Flyer (PDF)