One of the most common problems in the summer are tick bites. A tick is a small spider-like insect that bites and latches onto the skin and feeds on blood. They are most active in early spring to late summer and in areas where there are lots of trees, brush, plants, tall grass, or furry animals. Some people may experience a mild allergic reaction to a tick bite. But in some cases, people may experience a severe allergic reaction, paralysis, or worse.
Tick bites can cause infectious diseases, such as Lyme disease. Lyme disease is the most common tick-related disease in New York City. In 2016, there were 946 confirmed cases of Lyme disease – 51 in the Bronx, 322 in Brooklyn, 322 in Manhattan, 128 in Queens, and 123 in Staten Island. Symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, headache, and a skin rash. If left untreated, the disease can spread to the joints, heart, and the nervous system.
Dr. James Leach, Director of the Dermatology Department, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln.
Dr. James Leach, Director of the Dermatology Department at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, gives advice on how to prevent tick bites, what to do if you are bitten by a tick, and what to look out for after a tick bite.
Protect your skin
Use repellent on skin, clothes, and pets
Check for ticks
Removing a tick
Check for tick bite symptoms
Please contact your doctor immediately if you or a family member are experiencing symptoms from a tick bite. Click here to find a doctor or a patient care site at NYC Health + Hospitals.