Published on: 7/22/2025
How can I prevent Lyme disease tick bites?
To prevent Lyme disease tick bites, wear long sleeves and pants, use tick repellent, and check for ticks after being outdoors.
Explanation
Preventing Lyme disease involves several simple steps to avoid tick bites. Ticks are often found in grassy or wooded areas, so it's important to protect yourself when spending time outdoors.
Here are some tips to prevent tick bites:
- Wear Protective Clothing:
- Wear long sleeves and long pants to cover your skin.
- Tuck your pants into your socks or boots to keep ticks from crawling under your clothes.
- Use Tick Repellent:
- Apply repellent that contains DEET on your skin and clothing.
- You can also use permethrin on clothes for extra protection.
- Stay on Trails:
- Walk in the center of trails and avoid brushing against tall grass or bushes.
- Check for Ticks:
- After being outdoors, check your body and your pets for ticks.
- Pay special attention to areas like underarms, behind knees, and in hair.
- Shower After Being Outdoors:
- Take a shower soon after coming indoors to wash off ticks that are not attached yet.
By following these steps, you can reduce the risk of tick bites and Lyme disease. Always be vigilant and take action promptly if you find a tick on your body.
(References)
- Schwartz AM, Mackeprang JM, Mead PS, & Hinckley AF. (2022). A review of epidemiologic studies from the United States. Zoonoses and public health, 35791092.
- Richardson M, Khouja C, & Sutcliffe K. (2019). Interventions to prevent Lyme disease in humans. Preventive medicine reports, 30456054.
- Eisen L. (2022). Personal protection measures to prevent tick bites in the .... Ticks and tick-borne diseases, 35364518.
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