University of Maryland Urges People To Send Ticks for Testing!

Spending time outside in the warmer months is an opportunity to become closer to nature. Venturing out on hikes, discovering new walking trails and enjoying the fresh air, are an excellent way to spend your free time. However, not all of us are mindful of the tiny (in physical size) hazards that can have an enormous impact on our health when we’re out and about. We know what to look out for when it comes to the bigger creatures of the wilderness, but what about those that are so tiny, their threat seems insignificant? We’re talking about ticks!

Tiny Ticks Present a Mighty Threat

Ticks may be tiny, but they have a large pathogenic impact. In order to survive, these small arachnids need to gorge on blood in each of their four stages of life. Unfortunately, both humans and pets are attractive sources, making them susceptible to a range of debilitating tickborne diseases, such as Lyme disease.

Lyme disease is a really big problem. There are other tick-borne diseases too that we should be aware of.

It’s important that ticks in your area are identified. That way we know what we’re up against when it comes to tick-borne disease and the increase in the number of new emerging diseases.  If you’ve been bitten by a tick, remove it carefully, but instead of disposing of it, submit it for tick testing.

Did a tick just bite you? Get it off, but don’t toss it out just yet

The black-legged tick, or deer tick, is the most concerning of the bunch, because its bite can result in Lyme disease, which if left untreated could affect the joints, the heart and even the nervous system. Another tick which is common in this area is the American dog tick. This tick can carry Rocky Mountain spotted fever, which can be deadly if left untreated. Finally, the lone star tick can carry the flu-like illness Ehrlichiosis, and can also cause Alpha-gal syndrome, which is an allergy to red meats.

The University of Maryland offers free tick testing. You can find out more about how you can submit a tick by visiting their website.