Summer in Connecticut is the best time to get outside, whether it be through hiking, gardening, or soaking up the sunshine. But it also means being mindful of seasonal health risks, including ticks, Lyme disease, and mosquitoes.
Recently, Lauren and Kelsey from Elim Park sat down with Emily Gomes, a public health RN with our local health department, to talk about how to protect yourself and your pets this season.
What to Know About Ticks and Lyme Disease
Ticks love wooded areas, tall grass, and overgrown shrubs. Contrary to popular belief, they don’t jump—they crawl or drop onto you from branches or bushes. That’s why Emily says it’s so important to check yourself after being outside, especially within two hours of coming indoors.
Lyme disease comes from deer ticks, and it usually takes 24–48 hours of attachment for the bacteria to be transmitted. Not every tick bite will cause Lyme, but early removal can make all the difference.
Common signs to look for include:
● A bullseye-shaped rash (which can appear anywhere on the body)
● Achy joints and muscles
● Fatigue
If you do get Lyme disease, it’s often treated with a 30-day course of an antibiotic called doxycycline. In some cases, doctors may even prescribe a one-time antibiotic as a preventative measure after a tick bite.
How to Prevent Tick Bites
Emily’s prevention tips are simple but effective:
● Wear light-colored clothes so ticks are easier to spot
● Use insect repellents with DEET or Picardin
● Treat your clothing with tick repellent before heading outside
● Keep pets protected year-round with tick collars, chews, or sprays
And here’s a helpful resource—our local health department will test ticks for Lyme and other diseases. If you find one, just bring it in. If you’re ever concerned about a bite, call your doctor promptly—early action is key.
Wellness Tips for Hot Summer Days
Summer health isn’t just about avoiding ticks. Emily also shared some ways to beat the heat:
● Drink plenty of water and eat water-rich foods like fruit and veggies
● Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply often
● Stay in the shade during the hottest part of the day
● Check with your doctor if your medications might make you more sensitive to the sun or heat