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May 19, 2004 Ticks Are Nuisance and Potential Health Concern Reports of tick infestations have been received within the past several days and will increase as temperatures warm. Major tick activity can occur from mid-April to mid-June in our region. “In addition to being nuisance pests, ticks also pose health risks because of their ability to transmit disease,” says Mark Boetel, North Dakota State University research and Extension Service entomologist. The most common tick in North Dakota is the American dog tick. It is known to transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia (rabbit fever). Another disease of concern in the region is Lyme disease, which is transmitted by the blacklegged tick (sometimes referred to as the deer tick). Although Lyme disease is more prevalent in the eastern U.S., several cases annually occur in Wisconsin and Minnesota and about 30 cases have been confirmed in North Dakota since 1982. Rocky Mountain spotted fever symptoms include a sudden onset of headache and flulike symptoms, such as chills, muscle aches or a fever that persists more than a few days. After about four days of illness, a rash may occur. Without treatment, severe cases may progress to delirium, shock and even kidney failure. Tularemia symptoms include a red spot at the feeding site on the skin that gets larger and becomes a skin ulcer, several cycles of severe fever, swollen lymph nodes in the groin and armpits, headache, muscle pain, shortness of breath and pneumonia. Lyme disease begins as a red skin lesion at the feeding site that may expand. It may itch, feel hot or not be felt at all. It also may disappear and return several weeks later. Flu-like symptoms, such as headaches, stiff neck, aches and pains in muscles and joints, low-grade fever and chills, fatigue, appetite loss, sore throat and swollen glands are associated with Lyme disease. People who suspect they may have contracted any of these diseases should seek medical attention immediately. “People planning to engage in outdoor activity in areas likely to be infested with ticks should apply an insect repellent containing DEET, especially from the waist down,” Boetel says. “High-risk sites include tall grass, pastures and wooded areas. If practical, wear light-colored clothing in these areas because ticks are more noticeable on a light background.” To test an area for ticks, walk through the area dragging a white cloth. If ticks are present in high numbers, a few likely will show up on the cloth after walking through the area for a few minutes. Pets that pass through tick-infested areas and then spend time indoors occasionally will transport ticks into the home. One tick species, the brown dog tick, can be a major nuisance if brought into the home because it can complete its entire life cycle indoors. High infestations of this species in the home, although uncommon in the north-central U.S., sometimes require the services of a professional exterminator. Efforts to keep pets tick-free can be important in preventing these infestations. If possible, keep pets out of grassy or wooded areas unless they are protected properly. It is also important to be vigilant about inspecting pets often. Key areas to check include the head and inside the ears, although ticks may be found on other areas, such as the back and abdomen. Flea or tick collars or topical treatments, such as Bio Spot, Defend, Frontline, One-Spot and Spot-on, can be effective at preventing pets from becoming infested and can help control established infestations. If pets become heavily infested, an insecticidal shampoo available in pet stores and veterinary clinics can be helpful. Application rates may vary according to pet size. Some products are labeled specifically for dogs or cats, but not necessarily both. Permethrin-containing products may pose an elevated health risk to cats, so they should be avoided. It is important to pay close attention to the labeling on any product to ensure pet safety and increase the likelihood of effective tick control. Consult a veterinarian if considering one of these products to protect a pet that is immature, pregnant or ill. Some products are available only through veterinary clinics. Kennels, pet beds and other quarters should be cleaned and/or treated with an approved pesticide and the pet’s bedding should be laundered or vacuumed if ticks are found on pets. “The best way to remove a tick is to use a tweezers,” Boetel says. “Grasp the mouthparts near the skin surface and pull directly outward in a firm but gentle manner. Avoid twisting because it could result in mouthparts breaking off and remaining embedded in skin. Also, do not squeeze the tick’s abdomen while attempting to remove it because pressure on its body cavity may force infectious fluid back into the skin. Apply an antiseptic, such as rubbing alcohol or iodine, to the feeding site after tick removal to prevent infection.” Keeping the lawn mowed can help minimize the likelihood of ticks lighting on people. Pesticide applications for tick control in the yard should be reserved for extreme cases. Dozens of pesticides are available for managing ticks in the home, lawn and garden. ### Source:
Mark Boetel, (701) 231-7901, Mark.Boetel@ndsu.edu |
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