It’s tick season: here’s how to prepare

Summer is prime time for ticks, and the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts want to make sure people are aware of the risks of tick bites and how to guard against them.

“Tick bites can lead to a number of potentially serious illnesses,” said Richmond and Henrico Deputy Director Melissa Viray. “It’s important to take a few key steps to protect yourself and your family.”

The RHHD recommends that people prepare for ticks before they go outside by using EPA-registered insect repellant and tucking their pants into their socks. Children also should use insect repellent that contains less than 30% DEET, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

People also should make tick-checks a habit by inspecting their clothing and body for ticks after they are indoors. A tick could be found near your hair, behind your ears, under your arms, or in your belly button. If you find a tick, use tweezers and grasp the insect as close to your skin as possible, then pull up slowly with even pressure until the tick releases. Officials advise against “squishing” the tick. Clean the area and your hands with soap and water.

After you are bitten by a tick, use the VDH tick identification chart to identify the bite, officials said. If you develop symptoms of a tick bite, such as a rash or fever a few days or weeks after being bitten by a tick, contact your doctor immediately.

More information on how to identify and prevent tick bites can be found on the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts website.