K-State Experts Urge Tick Checks as Warmer, Wetter Weather Lifts Summer Populations
Updated
Updated · KCLY Radio · Aug 21
K-State Experts Urge Tick Checks as Warmer, Wetter Weather Lifts Summer Populations
1 articles · Updated · KCLY Radio · Aug 21
Summary
Kansas State University experts urged residents to check clothing, skin and pets after outdoor activity as tick populations rise during summer.
Warmer temperatures, milder winters, heavier rainfall and thicker vegetation are helping boost tick numbers, while concern about tick-borne illnesses is drawing more attention to the risk.
Ticks do not fly or jump, assistant professor Cassandra Olds said; they wait on vegetation, sense nearby hosts with their legs and then attach.
Prompt removal matters: experts advised pulling ticks straight away from the skin with steady pressure and checking warm, moist areas such as the scalp, hairline and skin folds.
Pets also need inspection—especially around the ears, head, legs and tail—and veterinarian-recommended flea and tick prevention can help protect dogs and cats.