Tick season befalls Missouri in April and lasts through September, according to the Missouri Dept. of Conservation. The small, bloodsucking parasites are known to carry diseases and often are found in areas where animals are abundant.
At least six different human tick-borne diseases have been reported statewide, the MDC stated, and yearly human case numbers are generally on the rise. Rocky Mountain spotted fever, lyme or a lyme-like disease, and the southern tick-associated rash illness are among those listed as prevalent.
Whitney Preslar is the communicable disease nurse at the Butler County Health Department. She said it is important to be prepared when heading outdoors.
"This year, Missouri expects to see a big tick-borne illness season," said Preslar, adding that ticks are most rampant in Butler County from May through July.
Preslar said it is common to see cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever at the BCHD. However, she said symptoms for most of the diseases are similar and typically begin 14 days after the bite occurs.
"If you suddenly spike a fever, go see your medical provider," Preslar said. "Patients have also reported headaches, rash and in some cases fatigue."
Preslar said tick bites are preventable if the proper precautions are taken. She suggested wearing boots with pant legs tucked inside and long-sleeved shirts. She also recommends spraying skin and clothing with a repellent containing 20 to 50 percent Deet, the most common active ingredient in bug sprays.
"I know it's hot during the summer, but they're making long-sleeve clothing out of materials that are cooler," she said.
Preslar said it is important to always check for ticks after time spent outdoors.
If a tick bite occurs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using fine-tipped tweezers to remove the parasite by pulling up while applying steady, even pressure. Jerking the tweezers can cause the mouth piece to break off and remain in the skin. If that happens, the CDC recommends using tweezers to pull it the rest of the way out. If removal is not possible, leave the bite alone and allow the skin to heal.
Red bumps where the tick latched onto the skin are normal, Preslar added.
She said after the tick is removed, clean the area using either rubbing alcohol or soap and water. For disposal, either flush it in the toilet or soak it in alcohol, she added.
For questions regarding ticks and tick-borne illnesses, call the Butler County Health Dept. at 573-785-8478.