Pittsburgh Will Experience Major Increase In Ticks In Spring 2019

Three cheers for the warm weather! Now that the golden sunshine and warm temperatures have returned, most of us Pittsburghers spend more time outdoors – hiking, hanging out in local parks, and relaxing in our backyards. With the beautiful weather also comes the threat of ticks. Unfortunately, we’ll likely see an increase of ticks in the area in 2019.

Remember how much wet weather we had in the Pittsburgh-area last year? Well, all that rain last year, and thus far in 2019, could signal a huge surge in ticks in Pittsburgh this year.

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The wet conditions, combined with the humidity, make it ideal for ticks to reproduce in large numbers while the animals, like opossums, that kill them will be more likely to find dry shelter.

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Pennsylvania traditionally ranks as the United States’ worst state for tick-related illnesses. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) point to more than 10,000 diagnoses of Lyme Disease in the state.

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But, the surge in ticks doesn’t mean we have to stay indoors all summer. We just need to take some precautions, according to the CDC.

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Ticks generally live in areas that are ripe with woods, brush, and grass. So, you likely even have them in your backyard.

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Protect yourself when you go outdoors, using an EPA-approved repellent. Click here to read more on how to choose the best tick repellent for you and your family.

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Then, once outdoors, pay attention to your surroundings. On a hike through the woods? Stay on the path, if there is one, while avoiding venturing into grassy or brushy areas that could be filled with ticks.

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When you, your family, and your pets come indoors after spending time outdoors, do a thorough check for ticks. If you find a tick, remove it immediately. And, if you think you’ve been bitten by a tick, go to the doctor immediately.

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Of course, you can also help prevent ticks, at least in your yard, by keeping your grass trimmed and pulling all weeds.

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And, if you’ve got any opossums in your yard, don’t chase them away. They’re harmless. More importantly, opossums can kill as many as 5,000 ticks every week, protecting you, your family, and your yard from ticks and other insects.

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Click here for more information from the CDC on how to avoid ticks and how to look for ticks after you’ve come indoors.

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Are you ready for the increase in ticks? What have you done to prepare? Join the conversation in the comments! Then, click here to read about four out of place animals that you just might see in Pittsburgh.