As the warmer weather arrives, so does the peak of tick season in Colorado. Colorado is home to several types of ticks that can transmit various diseases to humans. Understanding the different types of ticks and the diseases they carry is crucial for effectively preventing and treating tick-borne illnesses. Make sure to be proactive and take measures to prevent tick bites. This blog post will explore some valuable tips to stay safe during tick season in Colorado, and outline where you can get the care you need.
For same-day tick bite and illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Thornton. Our medical providers can properly remove and analyze ticks, evaluate your condition and symptoms, and plan the best treatment regimen. Simply walk into the clinic or reserve your spot online today!
Different Types of Ticks and Diseases in Colorado
One of the most prevalent tick species in Colorado is the Rocky Mountain wood tick. This insect can transmit Colorado tick fever, which is a virus that causes flu-like symptoms. Although the symptoms are typically mild for most people, complications can occur in rare cases. Colorado tick fever symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and fatigue.
Additionally, Colorado is also home to the American dog dick which can be responsible for Rocky Mountain spotted fever. RMSF is a potentially severe illness characterized by symptoms like fever, headache and rash. If you’ve been bitten by a tick, it’s very important to monitor your condition closely and seek medical care. These tick-borne illnesses can be treated effectively with prompt care.
Lyme disease is one of the most well-known tick-borne illnesses across the U.S. Lyme is carried by deer ticks, which are not as prevalent in Colorado. Lyme disease can lead to similar flu-like symptoms, lingering fatigue, and a “bull’s-eye” rash. While it may be fairly uncommon to get Lyme disease in Colorado, it’s still important to be aware of deer ticks’ presence when traveling east.
Tips For Preventing Tick Bites
Besides familiarizing yourself with the types of ticks found in Colorado, there are various valuable measures you can follow to stay safe this season. When spending time outside, be sure to dress appropriately. Tall grass and woody areas are known to be hot-spots for ticks. Wear protective clothing, like long-sleeved shirts, pants, and closed-toe shoes, to prevent ticks from attaching to your skin. Additionally, you can use tick repellents with DEET to reduce your risk of tick bites. It’s always important to perform regular tick checks on yourself, others, and pets to make sure you’re tick-free.
If you do find a tick on your body, proper removal is crucial. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the insect close to the skin and gently pull upward. If you require assistance with tick removal, visit AFC Urgent Care Thornton. Our providers can remove ticks and analyze the species to provide more information on your risk of infection. Always be sure to stay up-to-date with the latest information about tick-borne illnesses in your area. If you have any concern that you’re experiencing tick-borne illness, visit AFC Urgent Care Thornton for prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Thornton For Tick-Borne Illness Care
If you’ve been bitten by a tick, visit AFC Urgent Care Thornton for a full evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment options. In addition to treating your immediate symptoms, we can provide more information about preventing tick bites in the future. The clinic is open seven days a week and operates on a walk-in basis. AFC Urgent Care Thornton is conveniently located in the Denver area, servicing patients in Thornton, Northglenn, Eastlake and more. If you have any additional questions about Colorado ticks, please contact us directly at (720) 751-2910.
