County Health Department Warns Residents About Ticks

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MD – Maryland is one of 16 Northeast and Upper Midwest states at high risk for contracting human Lyme disease, which is why the Anne Arundel County Department of Health wants residents to remain vigilant in protecting themselves. More than 90 new cases of Lyme disease are reported every year in Anne Arundel County and last year, 91 confirmed or probably cases were reported.

The county health department urges parents to monitor their children’s outdoor activities and to carefully check clothing, skin and hair after spending time outdoors. Pets also need to be examined and should not have contact with deer, raccoons and other wildlife. The department offers the following tips for county residents:

• In tick infested areas, wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants tucked into your socks.
• Spray your arms and legs with an insect repellent containing 20 to 30 percent DEET. Always follow product instructions.
• Clear leaves, brush and tall grass around houses and at the edge of gardens.
• After coming indoors, remove clothing and wash and dry it at a hot temperature.

If you find a tick on your skin:

• Use sharp, pointed tweezers to grasp the tick as closely to the skin as possible. Pull straight out, gently but firmly.
• To dispose of a live tick, submerge it in alcohol. Place tick in a bag or container; seal bag or container very tightly; and toss it out. Do not smash the tick.
• Clean the tick bite with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.
• If a bull’s eye rash or red circles appear, see a physician.

The health department notes that Lyme disease is difficult to diagnose because it is symptom-less or, when symptoms are present, they mimic other diseases.

For more information, visit the county health department at www.aahealth.org.