How can I prevent Lyme disease?
You can decrease your chances of contracting Lyme Disease by following some simple precautions:
  • Tick-proof your yard by clearing brush and leaves where ticks live; keep woodpiles in sunny areas.
  • Do not assume you're immune if you've had Lyme disease before. Continue to follow precautions and check yourself for ticks.
  • When walking in wooded or grassy areas, wear light-colored clothing, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants tucked into socks. Try to avoid walking through low bushes and tall grass.
  • Insect repellents often repel ticks. Use EPA approved products containing DEET or Permethrin. Be sure to follow label instructions carefully.
  • It is a good idea to shower immediately after leaving wooded or grassy areas, as ticks often remain on your skin for many hours before biting.
  • Check yourself and your pets for ticks after being in wooded or grassy areas. Deer ticks may be no larger than the head of a pin, so look carefully.
  • Remove a tick with tweezers by gently grasping it near its head or mouth. Do not squeeze or crush the tick, but pull carefully and steadily. Once you have the entire tick removed, apply antiseptic to the bite area.

Show All Answers

1. What Is Lyme Disease?
2. What are the signs and symptoms of Lyme disease?
3. What are the causes of Lyme disease?
4. What are the risk factors?
5. When should I seek medical advice?
6. What are the screening and diagnosis procedures for Lyme disease?
7. What are the complications?
8. What are the treatment options?
9. How can I prevent Lyme disease?
10. Where can get more information about Lyme disease?