Tick Threat Surges: Protect Yourself Now

(NEXSTAR) – Emergency room visits due to tick bites have surged significantly this summer compared to past years, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

According to CDC data, gathered together with local and state health agencies, this summer's emergency room visits have increased compared to all years except 2017, which is the first year recorded in the CDC tracking system.

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Most cases were reported in the Northeast, then the Midwest and Southeast, in that order. Statistics indicate that children below 10 years old and individuals above 70 experienced the greatest number of emergency room visits due to tick bites.

Human beings spend more time outdoors during the summer, which is why we hear about more... tick infections ," said Sam Telford, an expert in infectious diseases at Tufts University. However, he urges caution year-round since "every season is tick season."

While tick populations Vary significantly across regions; certain northeastern states such as Maine, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island are experiencing "above-average" levels of American dog ticks this year, according to Telford.

Additionally, New York State has recorded more documented cases of deer tick bites this year compared to the previous year, according to Saravanan Thangamani, an expert researching tick-transmitted illnesses at SUNY Upstate Medical University.

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Although deer ticks can pose serious risks, this does not imply that individuals should avoid spending time outside.

There are several actions we can take to reduce the risk of contracting Lyme disease and avoid tick bites," said Dr. Christopher Bazzoli, an emergency medicine doctor at Cleveland Clinic. "We begin with attire, ensuring clothes are properly fitted, including high-quality socks, long pants, and long-sleeved tops, followed by the use of insect repellent which proves highly effective.

Bazzoli mentions that ticks are drawn to damp, warm spots such as beneath the armpits or behind the knees. However, when inspecting for ticks, each part of the body should be checked thoroughly, including the scalp.

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If you discover a tick, Bazzoli suggests using tweezers and positioning them as near to the skin as possible prior to gently lifting the tick upward. Should it not fully detach, tweezers may be utilized to remove any remaining parts.

"After removing a tick, there is now an opening in the skin, similar to any other wound, which requires caution to avoid a subsequent bacterial infection. Therefore, cleaning the affected area with warm, soapy water is crucial," as stated by Bazzoli.

Signs that require medical attention are skin rashes, elevated body temperature, head pain, or tiredness.

In conclusion, remember your pet companions, Bazzoli mentioned. Be certain to examine them carefully, including beneath their collars and between their paws.

The Associated Press was involved in preparing this report. The news agency known as the Associated Press provided input for this story. This report included contributions from the Associated Press. The Associated Press played a role in this reporting.

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