How To Protect Yourself From Ticks This Summer

A warm winter plus a drenched spring could spell more tiny pests trying to make our lives hell this summer.

Experts are warning of a "tick boom" in Minnesota. One bite is all it took for my life to get really complicated for a long time. Protect yourself.

A Tick Explosion in Minnesota

As a less-than-joyful carrier of chronic Lyme disease, this news makes me less-than-joyful.

On top of the risk of Lyme disease, there are ticks in the Midwest carrying the pathogen that can make you allergic to meat. ALLERGIC. TO. MEAT.

And ticks can harm your pets, too, so double the alert.

How to Protect Yourself From Ticks

Of course, nothing is completely fool-proof. Being persistent and consistent with preventative measures every time you're outdoors is your best defense.

use repellents with DEET
a repellent with permethrin is sprayed on clothes and lasts through several washes
wear light colors and tuck in your clothing
avoid any tick habitats like grass (good thing grass isn't everywhere), bushes (70s need not apply), fallen logs, and leaf litter
shower within two hours of being outdoors
check frequently for ticks
combine the last two with your significant other/friend with benefits/spicy neighbor and set yourself up for bonus fun time

If the rantings of a radio jock don't convince you, check out the Minnesota Department of Health's website for more tick tips.