The number of people infected by tick-borne diseases has nearly tripled from 2004 to 2017 in the United States(www.cdc.gov/ticks/data-summary/index.html). In Massachusetts in 2017 alone over 8000 people tested positive for Lyme disease. But most cases are not reported and it is estimated that 87,000 people a year in MA are getting Lyme disease (https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2018/05/07/state-expert-tens-thousands-likely-will-get-tick-borne-disease-mass-this-year/0xkVFQCctIJLoyzaQxL0xJ/story.html).
Winchester is not immune from ticks and the diseases they carry. The trails, fields, leaf litter and woods surrounding the properties here are ideal habitats for ticks. Prevention is the best defense. Prevention techniques can be found here: https://tickencounter.org/. However, if bitten by a tick:
- Pull tick off as soon as you find it using a pair of fine tweezers.
- Put it in a zipper lock bag and SEAL COMPLETELY.
- Consider having your tick tested to determine if it represents a risk to you.
- Either way, see your healthcare provider if you experience signs of illness.
- Go to www.tickreport.com to find out more about tick-testing and submitting tick.
- Winchester residents only pay a $10 fee. Discount will be applied when enter address on submission form.
- Download the "TickReport" app on itunes or google play and learn all about ticks and tick-borne diseases. Submit photos of ticks you find and the laboratory at UMass will identify them for free. You can also contact the lab at info@tickreport.com
The Tick Testing Program is generously being sponsored and supported by Winchester Hospital, Winchester Health Department and UMASS Tick Report.
