We would be hard pressed to name one person we know who doesn't feel uncomfortable at the mere thought of finding a tick on ourselves, our children, or our pets. However, this spring is one that's expected to bring more of these creepy little parasites than usual - and we have Mother Nature to thank, in more ways than one.
Ticks are prevalent the world over, especially in warm and humid climates.
They're true blood suckers who live on the the blood of humans and animals.
West Virginia's unusually mild winter this year is giving this eight-legged nuisance an extra leg up this season.
When winter temperatures are unseasonably warm, as they have been for a good part of the winter this year, it allows the ticks (and the creatures that host them) to flourish throughout a season that usually sees a decline in both. When more wild creatures make it through the winter, so do the ticks.
For that reason, this year is one where you'll want to be especially vigilant after being outside.
Be sure to check your pets for ticks each time you go out. All warm-blooded creatures are prone to hosting a tick. If you find one, pull it off immediately and dispose of it.
And be certain to check the little ones when they come in from playing outside.
The CDC's recommendation for anyone spending time in a tick-prone area is to take a shower soon after. Also check your clothing for any ticks that haven't made it to your skin yet. If you find a tick on yourself or a child, remove it with tweezers by pulling the embedded nose of the tick first. Then, take a photo, and/or even keep it in a jar of alcohol in case someone becomes infected.
Ticks are known to carry 12 different diseases that can affect humans and animals.
If you see signs of a tick bite doing anything out of the ordinary, then be sure to see a physician as soon as possible. The image shown here with a bullseye in the middle is indicative of Lyme Disease.
For additional important information about ticks, including how to avoid them and what signs to look for if you have been bitten, see this page on the official website of the CDC.
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