Last Week’s Program (6.27.23 bulletin)
Jason Goetz, Tick Borne Disease Control Specialist for Franklin, Fulton, Bedford, and Huntingdon Counties, gave us a great deal to think about. He taught us how to identify different types of ticks in our area. The Deer Tick is the most prevalent and carries 23 different pathogens. Of course, Lyme disease is one of those pathogens. Did you know Lyme disease is bacteria, which means that you can be afflicted by it multiple times?
Jason gave us tips on tick bite prevention. He suggested using a permethrin spray for our clothing and gear called Sawyer. It not only repels ticks but also kills them. It lasts for 6 weeks or 6 washes. It’s something he uses even when he’s hunting. He also suggested wearing long pants and long sleeved shirts. Tuck your pants into your socks and your shirt into your pants. After being in a tick prone area, take your clothes off in your garage or another area before entering your home. Put those clothes in the dryer for 10 – 15 minutes, not the washer because the heat from the dryer will kill any ticks left on the clothes.
Many questions were asked following the presentation, which were answered by Jason as well as Dr. Stewart and Dr. Lyon-Loftus. If you were bitten by a tick, it is best to see your doctor right away. Also, you can send the tick to East Stroudsburg University to be tested. To order a test, go to Ticklab.org.
