Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio
SAUGUS, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — One of the redeeming qualities of New England winters is the lack of ticks.
But that tick-less season comes to a screeching halt every spring.
Even though the transition to warmer temperatures seems painfully slow, it's enough to awaken those small, blood-sucking parasites from their winter slumber and begin their insatiable hunt for a host.
Tick bites can spread disease, and people go to great lengths to keep ticks off themselves, their family, and their pets.
At Breakheart Reservation in Saugus on Tuesday, people arriving and getting ready for a hike were well aware of the tick risks. "I was thinking of this as I was getting dressed," said Todd from Salem. "Making sure my socks are tucked into my pants and everything."
Just about anything that moves through fields, brush, and the woods is a potential tick target, said Kelly from Saugus. "Three kids, little kids, so we live in a wooded area too, so I just check them constantly."
She said her dog, Champ, is always a concern after any outing, and she uses medication to help prevent tick bites. "It's a monthly pill, so a chewable," she said. "Simparica treats ticks, heartworm, and fleas."
Doctors say the most effective way to prevent tick bites is a combination of using EPA-registered repellants such as DEET and/or Picaridin on skin, treating clothes and gear with repellent, and using veterinarian-approved, year-round preventives on dogs.
Showering immediately after being outdoors and high-heat drying clothes for 10 minutes can also kill ticks.
WBZ NewsRadio’s James Rojas (@jamesrojas.bsky.social) reports.