As the weather warms up and we spend more time outdoors, it’s important to take steps to protect ourselves from tick bites and the risk of contracting Lyme disease. That’s why Tick Boot Camp developed the ACRE Lyme Prevention Formula to help you stay safe and healthy while enjoying the great outdoors. The formula includes four key steps: Avoid tick bites, Check for biting ticks, Remove biting ticks properly, and Take steps to support your immune system with Early Intervention.
A – Avoid Tick Bites
Ticks are most commonly found in wooded or grassy areas, so it’s important to take steps to protect yourself when you’re spending time outdoors. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, tuck your pants into your socks, and use insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or a natural solution such as Tick Tock Naturals. You can also treat your clothing with permethrin, a chemical that repels ticks and other insects. (Check out our Tick Boot Camp podcast with the founder of Tick Tock Naturals, Dr. Susan Eisen to learn about how and why she designed a natural tick repellent.)
C – Check for Biting Ticks
Performing regular tick checks is an important part of preventing Lyme disease. After spending time outdoors, check your entire body for ticks, paying close attention to areas such as the groin, armpits, and scalp. If you find a tick, move on to the next step of the formula.
R – Remove Biting Ticks Properly
Removing a tick can be tricky, and it’s important to do it properly to reduce the risk of infection. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk the tick, as this can cause the mouth parts to break off and remain in the skin. After removing the tick, clean the bite area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water, and dispose of the tick in a sealed container or flush it down the toilet.
E – Early Intervention After Bite
If you are bitten by a tick, it’s important to take steps to support your immune system and to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early intervention is key when it comes to Lyme disease, and prompt treatment can help prevent the infection from spreading and causing more serious complications. Watch for symptoms such as fever, headache, and a characteristic rash, and seek medical attention if you develop any of these symptoms.
Tick bites are a serious concern, but with proper knowledge and precautions, you can minimize your risk and protect yourself from tick-borne diseases. If you want to learn more about what to do in the event you are bitten by a tick, we highly recommend visiting the Tick Boot Camp Tick Bite Blueprint. This crowd-sourced step-by-step guide provides valuable information on how to remove the tick, monitor your symptoms, and seek medical attention. By staying informed and prepared, you can enjoy the great outdoors this spring and beyond with confidence and peace of mind.
