TICK SEASON

BEWARE OF TICKS

We have been hearing alot lately of the

dreaded tick getting busy in around the backtraps

of brisbane city..

CHECK YOSELF BEFORE THEY WRECK YOSELF

Avoiding paralysis ticks

The best way to avoid tick paralysis is to stay away from known tick infested areas. If visiting such an area, wear light coloured clothing (so you can see them if they hop aboard you). Trousers should be tucked into socks and long-sleeved shirts into pants. An insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin should be applied, with a cream repellent applied to the skin and a spray repellent to footwear and clothing (that's because DEET can damage some synthetic clothing). Remember to reapply the repellent every few hours.



Searching for paralysis ticks on the body



On your return home, remove all clothing and place into a hot dryer for 20 minutes to kill any ticks that may still be on your clothes. This is important because ticks can wander on the body for up to two hours before attaching themselves to you. Alos check the whole family thoroughly for ticks, especially behind the ears, on the back of the head, the groin, armpits, and back of the knees. Because ticks are sometimes hidden by swelling around the bite, it's important to check any lumps carefully.



How to remove a paralysis tick from you body



The best way to remove an attached tick is to use tweezers with a fine point. Grasp the tick behind the head as close to the skin as possible. Gently pull the tick straight out using steady pressure. Don't try to kill the tick before removal by using methylated spirits, nail polish remover, alcohol, petroleum jelly, or anything else as this can make the tick inject more poison. After removing the tick, wash your hands and disinfect the tweezers and the bite. If you have trouble, seek medical help and have the tick surgically removed. Seek medical attention for allergic reactions or unusual symptoms.