At AFC Urgent Care and walk-in clinic in Cary our knowledgeable staff knows just how dangerous ticks can be. That is why our medical team can treat you accordingly and provide you and your loved ones with experienced preventative advice and treatment, so that you can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about ticks. As the weather improves, children and adults will both be going outside more to enjoy the sun and outdoors. But with the great weather comes many pests! One of these common outdoor pests are ticks, which can infect humans with parasites, viruses, bacteria and Lyme Disease.
Here are just a few things that you should know about ticks, preventing them, and symptoms of tick bites:
Where are ticks found?
Ticks are most commonly found in moist outdoor environments, such as in shrubs or leaf piles. If you are hiking, be sure to stay near the middle of the path to avoid brushing up against bushes with ticks.
How should you prevent ticks from biting you?
There are a number of ways to prevent ticks from biting you, such as:
- Coating your clothes/shoes with permethrin, which kills ticks.
- Use a repellent with DEET on your skin.
- Shower within 2 hours of coming back inside the house.
- Be aware of the vegetation you are walking through.
- Check for ticks on your body as soon as you are back inside.
How do I check for ticks?
Checking for ticks is easy, but requires a thorough check. First check your clothes for any ticks, and dry them on high heat to kill any ticks that might be on them. Use a mirror to then check your entire body for any ticks, including your underarms and in your hair.
What do I do if I’ve been bitten by a tick?
If you find a tick on you, be sure to use tweezers to pull it off completely. Watch for any rashes or illness symptoms and if you think you’ve been bitten, be sure to see a physician promptly.
If you think that you may be ill from a tick bite, you should see a doctor to diagnose your illness. AFC Urgent Care in Cary is a great option for tick prevention advice and treatment. We offer walk-in appointments and urgent care services for all of your health care needs. We are open 7 days a week to help you with all of your medical needs!
Find your Local American Family Care today! Let us provide you with the right care, right now!