Ticks can infect you, even in winter
Excerpted from the Poughkeepsie Journal ( Posted: 11/18/2011)
Despite falling temperatures, ticks and the diseases they carry remain a threat, the Dutchess County Department of Health says.
Though the colder winds keep mosquitoes away, ticks continue to thrive through the fall and even into winter whenever the temperature is above 40 degrees. A variety of ticks live in Dutchess County, and each carries its own set of diseases. Most notable is the black-legged tick, commonly referred to as the deer tick. The deer tick carries Lyme disease and also can infect a person with other diseases.
“We have seen an increase of tickborne diseases over the past few years,” Commissioner of Health Dr. Michael C. Caldwell said. “When going outdoors, even for a short while, please use insect repellent containing DEET or proven botanicals to repel ticks from becoming attached to you, and then check yourself, your family and your pets when you return indoors. These simple steps will help reduce the chances of becoming infected. Diligence is key, especially during this time of year when temperatures fluctuate.”
For the complete article: http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/article/20111118/NEWS01/311180032/Ticks-can-infect-you-even-winter
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