APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — If you’re headed out to the woods this summer, health officials say remember to have tick protection.
Ticks are most active in Wisconsin from May to November. Nearly all illnesses spread by tick bites in Wisconsin are caused by the deer (black-legged) tick.
To protect yourself, your loved ones, and pets, Outagamie County Public Health is offering tick kits for free.
Included in the kits are two insect repellent towelettes, one alcohol prep pad, one bandage, tweezers, a plastic bag to collect the tick, a tick safety guide, and information on where to check for ticks on your body.
To pick up a tick kit, go to the Outagamie County Public Health office on the third level of the Outagamie County building, located on 320 South Walnut Street in Appleton, during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The tick kits are available while supplies last.
Health officials say ticks must bite you to spread their germs and must remain attached to you for at least 24 to 36 hours to spread most germs, including the bacterium that causes Lyme disease.
When venturing out into wooded areas, it’s recommended to use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, do daily tick checks and shower within two hours after being outdoors.
If you do notice a tick on your body, use a tweezers to remove it. If you think you’ve been bitten by a tick, call your doctor.
