Pennsylvania leads the nation in Lyme disease cases, and southeastern counties like Delaware County are prime hotspots due to our mix of wooded parks, suburban lawns, and deer populations. Between the tiny, poppyseed-sized deer tick nymphs and larger dog ticks, it’s vital to protect yourself and your family.
You don’t have to stay indoors—just follow these three quick rules:
- Spray Your Gear: Before heading out to the parks and trails, use an EPA-approved repellent like DEET or Picaridin on your skin, or treat shoes and socks with Permethrin.
- Mow the “Moat”: Most tick bites happen right in our backyards. Keep lawns cut short to let the sun dry out the grass (ticks hate heat). If your yard borders woods, create a 3-foot-wide barrier of wood chips or gravel to stop them from crossing.
- The Post-Walk Toss: When you come inside, throw your clothes in the dryer on high heat for 10 minutes to kill hitchhikers, then hop in the shower to wash off unattached ticks and do a quick body check.
Pet Reminder: Check paws and bellies every time your dogs come inside from the grass and keep them up-to-date on vet-approved preventatives!