How Ticks, Fleas and Other Insects Can Wreak Havoc on Your Health - ThinkHealthier

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Wear appropriate clothing. Dress for the occasion. For example, if you are planning a hike in dense woods where ticks are likely to be a concern, cover your skin and tuck your pants into your boots to prevent the bugs from crawling up your legs. If you know you’ll be outdoors in the evening and nighttime hours when mosquitos are rampant, wear a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and shoes with socks. Protect your skin from easy access. Loose-fitting clothes typically protect better than tight clothes, which mosquitos and other insects can easily bite through.
Use insect repellent. There is a variety of options available for insect repellents -- from the traditional DEET versions to organic and hypoallergenic options to home remedies. Do some research and find out what makes sense for you and your family and try different solutions until you determine what works best.
Use special repellents. Candles, torches, bug zappers or other pest-blasting solutions are readily available to help you keep these health threats at bay when you spend time outdoors. Do some research to find an option you’re comfortable with and test some possibilities until you find what works for your patio or yard.

It’s possible to enjoy your time outdoors without much concern for insect-borne illnesses. Be aware of the risks, and if you are bitten, monitor your health for several days after the bite to ensure you don't experience any of the symptoms we described above. If you have concerns that you’ve been infected with a bug-borne ailment, see your physician as soon as possible for appropriate testing and follow-up treatment. Take some simple proactive precautions for you and your family, and then go out and enjoy yourself!