Sunscreen? Check. Sunglasses? Check. Ticks? Double-check!

With summer fun and outdoor activity hitting its peak do not let ticks spoil the party.

Tick bites can be the cause of many illnesses including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, alpha – gal, and more recently babesiosis.  

The good news? Most tick-related illnesses are preventable with some simple habits.

How to Prevent Tick Bites 

• Routine checks can often find ticks before they bite you.  
• Ticks are very skilled at going unnoticed, so checking yourself routinely for unwanted guests is a great habit to get into this time of year.
• Look carefully — Ticks will frequent many great hiding places such as:
  • Armpits
  • Behind the ears  
  • Along your waistline
  • In the belly button  
  • Between the toes 

Ticks can be very small and be mistaken for dirt, moles, or birthmarks.    

If you have kids, be sure to check them regularly/ teach them this important summer safety tip.

What to Do if You Find a Tick

• If you find a tick attached to you the safest and most effective way to remove a tick is with fine-tipped tweezers.
• Grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible, then pull upwards with steady, even pressure until it detaches.  
• Try to avoid squeezing the tick's body, which can force its saliva and potentially infectious material into your skin.   (Link to possible source)  
• Do not burn the tick or put chemicals on them.

Remember pets can bring ticks inside with them so if you are a pet owner you be extra vigilant.  

When to Seek Medical Care

Contact a provider if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• A new or expanding rash
• Fever or flu-like symptoms
• Headache  
• Joint pain or myalgia (muscle aches or body soreness)

No matter the question or symptom related to a tick bite, Luminis Health primary care providers can help you get the answers and care you need.  

With Luminis Health CareConnectNow you can connect with a medical provider on your mobile device from anywhere—even the comfort of your home.  

Appointments available (for ages 13 and up):

Weekdays: 8:00am - 9:00pm EDT  

Weekends: 9:00am - 4:00pm EDT  

Please note: You must be physically located in Maryland at the time of service.

Schedule a live virtual visit with CareConnectNow during operating hours or call us on your smartphone at 667-423-0609.