Many people fill their summers with outdoor activities, but this season is also when bugs are out in full force. Mosquitoes and ticks are more than just a nuisance. They can carry serious diseases that impact your health.
Here in Iowa, mosquitoes can transmit West Nile virus, a disease that can cause fever, headaches, body aches and in severe cases swelling of the brain. Most people infected don’t show symptoms, but older adults and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for complications.
Ticks are another major concern. Deer ticks can carry Lyme disease, which often begins with a bull’s-eye-shaped rash and flu-like symptoms. If not treated early, it can lead to joint pain, heart issues and neurological problems.
To protect yourself:
• Use insect repellent with DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants and socks, especially in wooded or grassy areas.
• Remove standing water to reduce mosquito breeding spots, such as birdbaths, buckets and gutters.
• Keep bugs out by repairing screens and sealing doors and windows.
• Do tick checks after spending time outdoors — on yourself, your kids, your pets. Be aware that ticks like to hide in such places as your hair, behind your ears and between your toes.
If you do find a tick, carefully remove it using tweezers, then clean the area with an antiseptic, such as rubbing alcohol. Dispose of the tick by flushing it down the toilet or placing it in a sealed container and wrapping it tightly in tape before throwing it in the trash.
After spending time in tick-heavy areas, such as in the woods or brush, toss your clothes in the dryer on high heat for 10 minutes before washing them as usual. This will kill any ticks attached to your clothing.
By taking just a few precautions, you can enjoy summer safely and avoid any serious bug-borne illnesses.
Natalie Peters is the community health educator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
