In St. Lawrence County, dealing with ticks is a regular part of life. While tick season is heavy in the spring and summer, ticks can be around year round. In fact, we have been experiencing shorter winters and warmer days overall. Changing climate patterns are likely to be a factor in making tick seasons more severe.

Tick-borne illnesses continue to be on the rise, and it's not just Lyme Disease. While Lyme Disease continues to be the most prominent tick-borne disease, some rising diseases in St. Lawrence County include anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and, babesiosis. Specifically, St. Lawrence County has seen an increase in anaplasmosis. To date in 2022, there have been 62 reported cases, which exceeds the 52 cases reported in 2020. In 2021, there were a total of 129 reported cases. While anaplasmosis can be less severe compared to other tick-borne diseases, more serious cases can occur due to a delay in diagnosis and treatment. It is important you keep track of any symptoms you are experiencing.

Don’t Ignore Your Symptoms:

Fever, chills, severe headache, malaise (general feeling of discomfort or illness), myalgia (muscle aches and pain), joint pain, stiff neck, gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite), rash, enlarged lymph nodes, or facial paralysis.

If you've been experiencing any of the symptoms listed above for a prolonged period of time, you may have a tick-borne illness. Talk with your provider, especially if you've spent some time outside. Tick-borne diseases can be treated effectively if caught early, but when ignored can lead to long-term health problems.

Found a Tick on You?

You'll want to remove the tick if it is attached. To do this, use tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. After removing the tick, clean the site and your hands with soap and water.

If you find a tick on you, talk with your doctor. You may be eligible for preventative treatment.

Prevention

Know where to expect ticks. Ticks live in grassy, brushy, leafy, or wooded areas. Many people get ticks in their own yard.

Wear long pants, long sleeves, and tall socks to reduce exposed skin.

Tip! Wearing light colored clothing helps to spot ticks on you.

Tick Check! Check for ticks after being outside. Areas to focus on include: under the arms, in and around the ears, behind the knees, between the legs, around your ankles, and on the hairline.

Use insect repellents to treat clothing, gear (boots, socks, tents, etc.)

Check your pets when they come inside.