Did you know that some ticks carry pathogens that can cause human disease, such as Lyme Disease, Babesiosis, and Ehrlichiosis?  According to the CDC there are things you can do to help reduce your chances of getting a tickborne disease:

1. Check your clothing for ticks. Ticks may be carried into the house on clothing. Tumble dry clothes in a dryer on high heat for a minimum 10 minutes to kill ticks on dry clothing after you come indoors. If the clothes are damp, additional time may be needed. If the clothes require washing first, hot water is recommended.
2. Examine self and pets. Ticks can ride into the home on clothing and pets, then attach to a person later, so carefully examine pets, clothing, bags etc.
3. Showering may help wash off unattached ticks and it is a good opportunity to do a tick check.
4. Check your body for ticks after being outdoors, including your own backyard. Use a hand-held or full-length mirror to view all parts of your body. Check these parts of your body and your child’s body for ticks:

• Under the arms
• In and around the ears
• Inside belly button
• Back of the knees
• In and around the head/hair
• Between the legs/groin area
• Around the waist