Nature is the home to an incredibly versatile array of species, but ticks are definitely one of those that we tend to avoid at all costs.
These tiny arachnids, that are related to spiders, mites, and scorpions, are in fact parasites that survive by attaching themselves to larger animals and feeding on their blood. Humans aren’t spared either. Sadly, these insects carry harmful bacteria that can spread disease to people.
Sadly, tick-borne diseases are at an all-time high, with about 50,000 cases reported each year, and far more going unreported.
There are different types of ticks, and unfortunately, they sometimes find their way to people’s homes. The types most commonly found in homes are the black-legged tick, the dog tick, and the brown dog tick.
- Black-legged Ticks – known as deer ticks, these ticks are typically brown or black in color and have a flattened, oval-shaped body. They are commonly found in wooded areas and can transmit Lyme disease.
- Dog Ticks are larger and can range in color from brown to reddish-brown. They have a tough, shield-shaped body. Dog ticks can transmit diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
- Brown Dog Ticks are brown in color and have a slender body.
Although the tick season is between March and October, or sometimes longer, we should be wary of this insects all year round. In fact,if beaten by a tick, a person can develop symptoms even after two or three months.
The bite itself isn’t painful and can cause swelling, itchiness, blistering, and bruising. The bad thing is that ticks also carry and transmit severe diseases, most commonly Lyme disease, as well as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis.
Initially, Lyme disease develops as a circular red ‘bull’s eye’ rash around the site of a tick bite. However, not everyone gets a rash and you should also watch out for a flu-like illness with fever, headache, tiredness and general aches and pains.
The best way to prevent being bitten by a tick is to avoid tall grasses and areas where ticks thrive (such as moorlands and woodlands), especially during the warmer months.
In case you do get bitten, you should remove the tick as soon as possible in order to prevent infections.
These are some of the ways of safe removal.
- Use fine-tipped tweezers: Use clean, fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
- Pull gently: Apply steady upward pressure, being careful not to squeeze or crush the tick. Aim to remove the tick in one smooth motion without twisting or jerking. Twisting or jerking can cause the tick’s head to break off and stay inside the skin, where it can still transmit disease.
- Clean the area: After removing the tick, clean the affected area with soap and water or an antiseptic solution. Monitor the site of the bite for any signs of infection or a rash, and consult a healthcare professional if necessary.
If by any chance ticks find their way into your home, take immediate action in order to prevent infestation. Most times, ticks are brought into your home in case they stick on your clothes or onto your pets.
- Isolate the area: If you have identified the presence of ticks in a specific area, keep pets and children away from that space.
- Wear protective gear: Put on gloves and a long-sleeved shirt to protect yourself from potential tick bites.
- Clean the area: Clean the area where you found the tick. If it is in bedding, wash the sheets. Inspect the area to ensure there are no more ticks that are present. Dispose of the tick by either flushing it down the toilet or sealing it in a container or ziplock bag before placing it in the trash.
“KEANU REEVES STANDS FIRM: REFUSES TO PRESENT WHOOPI GOLDBERG’S LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD AMID HOLLYWOOD CONTROVERSY”
In a dramatic twist, Keanu Reeves, the revered icon of Hollywood, has made a surprising decision to refuse the honor of presenting Whoopi Goldberg’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Reeves, celebrated for his unwavering integrity, cited profound reservations about Goldberg’s character, indicating a departure from his typically affable demeanor.
Initially, the TV Production Committee had eagerly selected Reeves for the prestigious role, a choice he had eagerly embraced. However, upon discovering that he would share the stage with Goldberg, Reeves promptly retracted his acceptance, expressing his reluctance to be associated with what he deemed an unfavorable situation, stating: “I refuse to be linked with such a misstep”.
In an uncommon display of solidarity, other notable figures such as Justin Timberlake, Wynona Ryder, and Gloria Estefan have followed suit, declining the opportunity in support. The quest for alternative presenters persists, with speculation swirling around the whereabouts of Jackie and Kelso, who have evaded detection thus far.
Amidst the frenzied chatter of Hollywood’s inner circles, a search party under the command of Ravine Captain Joe Barron scours for the elusive pair. Some conjecture they may have metaphorically stumbled into the depths of social media disgrace, while others propose a more subdued retreat. Nevertheless, the consensus remains that their professional fortunes have reached a nadir.
Reeves, unwavering in his resolve, remains steadfast in his decision, steadfastly refusing to reconsider despite the unfolding drama. As the narrative takes unexpected detours, one certainty prevails, Keanu Reeves stands unwavering amidst the tempest of Hollywood controversy.
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