It’s summer and everyone gets a break from school so your grandkids are most likely to plan a camping trip out in the woods, somewhere near the lake where they could pitch a tent, go fishing and spend the day doing what kids do best: playing. It’s every family’s awaited season for adventures like that to happen. We go through some serious planning on how best to get out of the comfort of our house and experience nature, or some may call, wilderness. The most exciting part there, especially for a grandpas and grandsons, is to conquer nature’s challenges. These trips are very important to us, but how sure are we that we are still protected from illnesses after the trip?

There was a young couple once who went hiking in Virginia countryside, it was a bit warm, and the girl decided to wear shorts instead of pants. Days after they came back, she suffered from flu with joints aching. She discovered a rash in her leg that resembled a red bull’s eye. They sought medical treatment, antibiotics were given. It was diagnosed as Lyme’s disease. Turned out, deer ticks found their way onto her legs, and since these ticks were so small, their bite is painless. It would be asymptomatic for days. Serious medical attention may be needed if not treated properly.

There are some pointers we can note to avoid this disease. When going to areas where deer species may possibly be residing, try to wear protective clothing like pants and a jacket to avoid ticks from getting in contact with your skin. Bring insect repellent and apply them in exposed area of your skin. Shower and use antibacterial soap as soon as you get home to remove unattached ticks. If you decide to bring pets, leash them to avoid entering bushes and trails. Check pets for ticks after going outdoors. These ticks may be small enough, but they can be seen by our mere eyes – or with your prescription glasses if need be. Try to check your skin and if any would be found, use a tweezer to pull these bugs. Be careful not to leave their head inside our skin.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infestation that starts with flu, then with joint pains and later, rash on the affected area. It is common during summer when the weather is warm. Let’s not allow these ticks to ruin your vacation, moreover, your summer, by learning how to prevent them from happening to you and your family. Happy summer!