The 2022-2023 winter has been a rainy one. After the wet and rainy winter we’ve had in Northern California, experts say we may see more ticks this summer.

Ticks are one of the most concerning pests because they can cause Lyme Disease. They’re the most active during warm months. And since we’re out-and-about more when it’s warm, ticks are a threat to public health. So what can we do to prevent getting bitten by ticks?

People can come in contact with ticks through gardening, hunting, or any number of outdoor activities.
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Pets can also get ticks, so be sure to check your animals for ticks.
Do your best to avoid getting bitten by a tick by following some simple guidelines: If you’re going to be outdoors– hiking, picnicking, etc., find out if that area has ticks.
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Often, California parks and wildlife areas will post warnings on their websites if ticks are common in the area.
When enjoying the outdoors in an area known to have ticks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends treating your clothes with .5% permethrin.
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This chemical can be sprayed on clothing, boots, and camping gear before using it. You can also buy clothing and gear pre-treated with permethrin.

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Insect repellants can also work to deter ticks. Anything containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-methane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone will work.
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If you’re going to hike in an area known to have ticks, just stay on the trail and avoid walking through high grasses and piles of leaves, where ticks tend to gather. Do not use OLE or PMD on children under the age of 3.
After spending time outdoors in an area with ticks, check your clothing and gear for ticks, as well as your pets.
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Examine coats, backpacks, etc. for ticks. And to be extra safe, shower within two hours after arriving at your home from being outside. Showering is a good way to wash off ticks you might not see, and avoid getting Lyme Disease.
Ticks thrive after a bout of wet weather. Experts warn that this year’s tick season may be bad.
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If you’re bitten by a tick, you’ll want to contact your doctor.

Are you planning on spending time in the country this spring and summer? What do you do to keep you and your family from getting ticks?

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