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Page: << Prev | 1 | 2 If you've been bitten, remove the tick by pulling it straight up with tweezers or between your fingertips if tweezers are not available. If possible, store the tick in a sealed plastic bag in your freezer.
If you develop any symptoms, you and the tick should be tested for Lyme disease right away, experts recommend.
For the most part, mosquitoes are just a warm-weather nuisance, although some people can have a severe allergic reaction to bites and require emergency treatment.
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Mosquitoes can also carry West Nile virus. About 80 percent of people who are infected with West Nile virus show no symptoms, but a few develop a high fever, headache, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, coma, tremors, convulsions, muscle weakness, vision loss, numbness and paralysis, according to the CDC.
Mosquitoes can also transmit encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain.
To protect against bites, wear insect repellent, especially at night. Repellents containing DEET are highly effective, but repellant used on children should contain no more than 10 percent DEET. Never put DEET on infants.
Other steps you can take include:
- Staying inside at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active, or wearing long-sleeved pants and shirts when outside during those hours
- Making sure window screens are in good condition
- Avoid standing near stagnant pools of water, trash cans, and gardens where flowers are in bloom
- Keeping food, drinks and garbage sealed
More information
The American College of Emergency Physicians Foundation has more on stings and bites.
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-- Jennifer Thomas
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