HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Mosquitoes aren’t the only thing thriving in the cool wet weather this spring. Ticks are also plentiful in Kansas.
Ticks spread a number of diseases that can cause hospitalization and even death. In Kansas the primary concerns are Lyme disease, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Adult ticks can also feed on a variety of hosts including cattle, horses, sheep, dogs, cats, and humans. Adult ticks are often encountered in Kansas from late February through early June.
The best way to prevent tick bites is to wear long sleeves and pants. You should tuck your pants into your socks if possible. Wearing light colored clothing will help you spot ticks as well. Also, insect repellent will work most of the time.
Removing a tick that’s latched on requires one simple thing, a tweezers that will let you get as close to the head of the tick as possible.
Pull slowly and straight out from the bite area. Do not twist or crush the tick. After removing the tick, if you feel ill or the bite area becomes red, seek medical attention.
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