Ticks, bug bites and sting precautions

Nicholas Lumi, St. Luke’s University Health Network physician’s assistant, is recommending extra precautions this summer against mosquitoes, fleas and ticks bites due to the wet winter and ticks not dying off at the usual expected rate. The bug population across the country has tripled from 2004 to 2016, according to The Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Pennsylvania leads the nation in the number of cases of Lyme disease caused by bites from infected blacklegged “deer” ticks. About one in five ticks carry the risk of transmission. Lumi suggests wearing a tick repellent on the skin and clothing, one that contains DEET, when outdoors.

To remove a tick, use tweezers, grab the tick as close to your skin as you can and pull straight back; or visit an urgent care facility for removal. For bee stings and mosquito and spider bites, treat with topical corticosteroid creams and antihistamines such as Benadryl. Seek immediate medical attention if you have a reaction and have trouble swallowing or breathing.