NEEDHAM, Mass. — New data from CDC says emergency room visits for tick bites in the Northeast are up 30%.
“I always think about ticks especially in the woods because they’re out here,” said Jane Donovan of Needham
Donovan often walks her dog Brodie in Needham near the woods and the news that ER visits are up doesn’t surprise her. She knows first hand.
“I’ve had a tick bite before,” she said.
Dr. Thomas Mather is the Director of the University of Rhode Island’s Tick Encounter Resource Center. He says CDC numbers show a slight increase of people seeking treatment for tick bites.
“Probably 10% more this year than other Julys,” said Dr. Mather.
The tick expert says it’s more important to know which kind of tick bit you because there are several out there.
“Learning that it’s not a tick that transmits Lyme disease puts people’s minds at ease,” said Dr Mather.
The deer or black-legged tick transmits Lyme. It’s one of the most common in New England found in woods, and even on the edge of your yard in tall grass.
“I think I’ve checked for ticks before but never found one but I don’t think I could tell the specific type just by looking,” said Erin Farley who was also out walking in Needham.
Dr. Mather says knowing what ticks you may encounter is vital to know if you need treatment. His website tickencounter.org lists them by region.
He also advises being tick smart and using a tick repellent for shoes and clothes.
“And for me, appropriate clothing is treated with permethrin repellent because that’s the best tick repellent out there,” said Dr. Mather.
A tool you can use to be “tick smart” is found here.
Dr Mather says if you do get bitten follow these steps:
- Remove the tick
- Take a picture
- Make sure it’s clear
- Make sure it’s the topside of the tick
Within 24 hours they can tell you what kind of tick it was.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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