Ticks are tiny, parasitic, blood-sucking insects that feed on humans as well as animals. The fossil record shows that ticks have been around for some 90 million years. There are approximately 800 species of ticks known to humankind. Out of these only two are known to spread diseases to humans and animals. These two families of ticks are called Ixodidae (hard ticks) and Argasidae (soft ticks). A single tick can start a tick infestation as it lays multiple eggs at once. A tick can get attached to your hair, skin, clothing, or your dog if you venture into wooded areas, grassy areas, or areas with bushes. The ticks will attach somewhere on the body and bury its head in the skin and will start sucking blood. Tick bites are painless but can cause certain diseases that are dangerous.
Tick infestations are on the rise in the Northeast US causing a rare disease called Babesiosis.
What is Babesiosis?
Babesiosis also known as babesia is a rare tick-borne disease caused by the bite of the four-legged deer tick belonging to the Ixodidae family. These ticks release parasites called babesia into the bloodstream that primarily attack the red blood cells in the body. These are the same ticks that cause Lyme disease. Babesiosis can range from mild to severe depending on the immunity of the person. Symptoms usually include; fever, chills, sweats, fatigue, muscle aches, and headaches. Children, the elderly, or people with weak immune systems can have severe symptoms.
Prevention and Protection
Always use a tick repellent when you go out on yourself and on your pet, especially while going out in bushy areas.
Always wear protective clothing, trousers tucked into socks, shirt or t-shirt tucked in the trousers. Additionally, wash all your clothes once you come home. Also, don’t forget to give your dog a bath too.
If you have a yard, keep it well-maintained. A clean yard has less chance of attracting ticks.
If you notice a tick and tick bites (similar to mosquito bites, red bumps, or itchiness), consult a doctor to be safe against Lyme disease or babesiosis.
If you notice ticks in your home, or your dogs, immediately contact a professional pest control. One such expert who deals with tick infestation is RidAway. RidAway is state-licensed and industry certified and uses biologically friendly pesticides that leave your home safe to return to. Ridaway provides quick solutions to urgent problems. For a quick solution to an urgent intrusion, RidAway is ready to come to your rescue.
