2019 Tick Forecast For Delaware Is Higher Than Usual

There aren’t many feelings worse than coming home from a lovely day outside and finding out that you’ve been bitten by a tick. Unfortunately for Delawareans, 2019 is predicted to be a record year for ticks in Delaware, and it’s important to be prepared to defend yourself against these terrible, bloodsucking creatures.

A warm winter and a very wet spring has led wildlife experts to believe there will be a big surge of ticks in Delaware for 2019, and anyone who spends time outdoors should be aware.

Facebook / Friends of White Clay Creek State Park

Every year, Delaware is among the top states with new Lyme diagnoses, so it’s important to pay attention to tick forecasts and outdoor safety.

CDC.gov

The scariest of all ticks is the tiny deer tick, shown below. They can transmit Lyme disease, which has a number of dangerous effects, including neurological damage.

Flickr / Jean Gazis

The lone star tick is another eerie bloodsucker to watch out for. Many who encounter this creepy insect report an allergic reaction to red meat after a bite.

Flickr / Joshua Allen

There are precautions you can take if you’ll be spending time outdoors. Wear long pants, and tuck them into your socks, to avoid ticks in long grass. Keep a hat on, too, to avoid ticks dropping from trees. Long sleeves are recommended, too.

Flickr / Chris Hill

While many people talk of the benefits of essential oil based sprays, none have been proven to be effective against dangerous ticks. On the other hand, bug sprays with DEET are proven and effective.

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In recent years, I have taken to spraying my clothes and boots with permethrin in the spring. The chemical dries into the clothing and repels ticks for several weeks at a time.

Flickr / Timo

If you’ve got a dog or cat, speak with your vet about the best way to keep them safe from ticks! Some prefer oral preventatives, while others recommend topicals. It all depends on where you are and how much time you spend outside.

K. Magaraci & Wilco (the Dog) for OIYS

If you take the time to learn about tick repellents and preventatives, as well as do a thorough tick check after any outdoor adventure, you should be safe from the creepy crawlies this year. Be sure you know how to correctly remove ticks before hitting the trails.