Lyme Disease Awareness Month

Wisconsin Rapids, Wis. (Civic Media) – May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month and the warmer the weather becomes, the more active the ticks are. Ticks are found just about everywhere in Wisconsin and can carry other serious infections besides Lyme disease including anaplasmosis, Powassan virus, and tick-borne relapsing fever. A significant increase in reports of Lyme disease has officials warning of the growing public health concern. The CDC reported over 89,000 cases of Lyme disease in 2023.

Chemical and Natural Repellents

Dr. James Thatcher is a physician at the Aspirus Tick-borne Illness Center. He recommends a variety of ways to prevent tick bites. You can use EPA-approved chemical repellents like DEET to treat your clothing. Dr. Thatcher said, “You’re not supposed to spray that on your skin. … it’s a chemical and I have children and I’m not going to use a chemical on them, so I’m always searching for more.”

You can also find natural tick repellents made with essential oils or make your own.“Cedarwood oil, lemongrass, thyme, rosemary, clove, geranium, these chemicals or herbs. And usually they’d have a lavender in it too.” These tinctures can often be found at farmer’s markets, natural food stores, and food co-ops.

Other Reduction Methods

Wearing bright colors will allow you to see the ticks on your clothing, especially the baby nymphs that can look like a speck of pepper. Dr. Thatcher says to remove your outside clothing right away when you come in from the outdoors. You can throw them into the dryer for 6-10 minutes on high to kill any ticks on your clothing. It’s also important to do a full body check, including your hair. If you find a tick, you want to remove it without squeezing the belly. Dr. Thatcher advises, “You want to lift, and you want to pull back. Ok, cause when the tick is attached to you, it’s building up its stomach juices to infect you.” 

What To Do if Bitten

If bitten by a tick, remove it right away and pay attention to any signs of illness. Symptoms of Lyme disease can vary. They often include fever, fatigue, joint pain, and rash. In some cases, symptoms can progress or persist if not treated early. If you notice any symptoms of Lyme disease, contact your primary care physician. Learn more about Lyme Disease Awareness Month at the Aspirus Tick-Borne Illness Center website.