DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Patrick McDonnell, and Pennsylvania Department of Health Acting Secretary Alison Beam reminded Pennsylvanians who enjoy the outdoors hiking, fishing or wildlife watching that tick-borne diseases are present across the state, and encouraged residents to seek treatment if they have been bitten by a tick and provided tips to prevent tick bites from occurring.
Residents and visitors can take simple steps to reduce their chances of being bitten by ticks by:
- Covering exposed skin with lightweight and light-colored clothing
- Avoiding tick-infested habitats such as areas dense with shrubbery or tall grass
- Using an EPA-approved insect repellent
- Immediately checking yourself, children, and pets for ticks once returning home
- Taking a shower immediately to remove ticks that may be crawling on skin
- Drying clothing and gear in a dryer to kill any ticks
“Taking these precautions and safeguards are important in ensuring an experience free of tick-borne diseases. DCNR remains committed to informing the public and equipping our employees with the necessary tools to address tick bites,” DCNR Secretary Dunn said.
