HARRISBURG (Newsradio 100.1 FM and AM 1020 KDKA) – The Wolf Administration discussed the high tick prevalence across Pennsylvania and the need for residents to check their bodies for tick bites.
"Ticks are most active during warmer months, which is why we typically see more instances of tick bites and cases of tick-borne diseases this time of year," PA Acting Physician General Dr. Denise Johnson said. "This year in particular, we are seeing increases in the number of Lyme disease reports across the state, and clinicians are reporting that they are seeing more cases of other tick-borne diseases, such as anaplasmosis. As Pennsylvanians continue to spend more time outdoors, we are urging everyone to take steps to prevent tick bites, such as wearing insect repellent, putting permethrin on their shoes, gear and clothing, and doing frequent tick checks."
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has collected two times more Blacklegged tick nymphs, also known as deer ticks, compared to 2020. This is concerning because of the small size of the nymphs.
"The increase in nymphs really drives home the message that we all need to adhere to the necessary precautions to stay safe from ticks," said DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell.
Deer ticks carry Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Powassan virus.
To reduce your chances of being bitten by a tick, follow these guidelines:
· Cover exposed skin with lightweight and light-colored clothing
· Avoid tick-infested habitats such as areas dense with shrubbery or tall grass
· Use an EPA-approved insect repellent
· Once returning home, immediately check yourself, children, and pets for ticks
· Take a shower immediately to remove ticks that may be crawling on skin
· If possible, dry clothing and gear in a dryer to kill any ticks
"It is always important to take preventative measures so you can enjoy the mental and physical health benefits of being in the outdoors, especially with regard to ticks," Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy AdamsDunn said. "As tick-borne diseases are becoming more prevalent in Pennsylvania, it is critical to be aware of the risks and be prepared when spending time outdoors year-round, whether that is visiting one of our 121 state parks, hiking our more than 2.2 million acres of state forestland, or enjoying your own backyard."
Common signs of a tick-related disease include fever, headache, chills, and muscle aches.
Tick bites often appear as a bullseye-like rash, but not always the case.
