What To Do If You Find A Tick On Your Person In West Chester

Can Ticks Spread Disease?

Scientists started recognizing tickborne illness at the end of the 19th century. When the parasite bites you, it releases some of its saliva into your bloodstream, which can introduce pathogens. The list of diseases tick bites spread is something to take seriously, as many can cause fatality if not treated in a proper amount of time. Ticks in Pennsylvania can be vectors for:

• Lyme disease
• Anaplasmosis
• Babesiosis
• Ehrlichiosis
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Tularemia

While Lyme disease is the most infamous on this list, Rocky Mountain spotted fever is the most prone to lethality. This disease can cause death within eight days. Lyme disease starts with fatigue, headaches, fever, and rashes. However, if it isn’t diagnosed and dealt with, Lyme disease causes damage to joints, the nervous system, and the heart, ultimately able to prove fatal. The other diseases on the list cause fever, chills, confusion, severe headaches, rash, and nausea.

Can My Pets Get Diseases From Ticks?

Human diseases aren’t the only concern with ticks. Some of the same human diseases caused by ticks apply to animals like dogs, cats, and cattle, with symptoms becoming apparent after seven to 21 days. In addition, ticks are small and will most likely go unnoticed. Ticks are in season from late March to early October, during the sunny months. The best thing to do for your pets when adventuring is to prevent the ticks proactively. Consult with your veterinarian about year-round tick prevention for your pet, and be sure to check for ticks after your pet has spent time outdoors.

How Can I Properly Remove A Tick?

A lot of people tell you to light a match to compel the tick to let go. While this will make the tick unlatch from its blood meal, it also prompts them to release more saliva, which increases the chance that a pathogen will transmit to the host. It is better to remove the tick with gloved hands or tweezers.

• Grasp the tick with fine-tipped tweezers as close to the skin as possible. 
• Pull the tick out with firm, even pressure and a straight angle so it doesn’t lose part of itself in the bite. 
• Place the tick in a freezer bag to check it for possible pathogens later. 
• Wash the bite with soap and water.
• Wash your hands thoroughly.

Make sure you don’t crush the tick in your fingers. This can spread its pathogens. If you start to feel symptoms, take the tick in to get tested, or get tested yourself. 

How Can I Remove A Tick Infestation Permanently?

Ticks like brush and wooded areas, often on your very own property. It’s not a pleasant idea to imagine that serious ailments are waiting in the pincers of a near-invisible parasite only yards away. Ways to get rid of ticks are:

• Build a perimeter of gravel to block off nearby thickets or woodland.
• Wear bug repellent for tick protection.
• Vacuum frequently in the house.
• Wear long pants and long sleeves when spending time outdoors.
• Keep grass and other landscaping trimmed short.

At Masters Touch Pest Solutions, we can help secure your home from any pest at any time, even on the same day you call us. We provide pest control for lawns in West Chester and any pest-related service you could imagine. If you need help with any infestation, don’t wait to call us.