60 likes | 189 Views
Florida is home to various ticks, including the American Dog Tick, known to carry serious diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and tularemia. Ticks can remain dormant for up to two years without feeding and are often found on vegetation near paths. Lyme disease can cause flu-like symptoms and a distinctive rash and typically requires prompt antibiotic treatment. Preventative measures like using DEET and quick tick removal are essential in minimizing health risks associated with these pests.
E N D
Infected Tick Areas American Lyme Disease Foundation, aldf.com
Incidences of Lyme Disease by County Center for Disease Control, cdc.gov
American Dog Tick Wildflorida.com
American Dog Tick • Usually found on vegetation beside paths and trails, waiting for an animal to walk past. • Can go up to two years without feeding. • Can carry diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia. Some can cause “tick paralysis” if left to feed on an animal too long. • Largest of Florida ticks. Wildflorida.com
Rocky Mountain spotted fever Tularemia • Causes flu-like symptoms and a spotty rash. Needs antibiotics. • Tick has to be attached to the person for 6-20 hours for the disease to transfer, so plucking the tick off sooner, rather than later, is key. • Causes an open wound at the bite site Lymph nodes swell up. Needs antibiotic treatment. • DEET is effective at repelling ticks, removing the tick quickly prevents transmission of diseases. cdc.gov