As the warmth of summer settles in, South Central Pennsylvania’s verdant landscapes beckon outdoor enthusiasts to explore its abundant hiking trails. However, with the beauty of the season comes the challenge of navigating pests such as ticks and mosquitoes, and irritating plants like poison ivy, oak, and sumac.
Valerie Myers, a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner with WellSpan Urgent Care, offers vital advice for those venturing outdoors. She emphasizes the importance of prevention, particularly against insects that carry diseases like West Nile virus, Zika virus, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Lyme disease. “While not every insect bite will lead to illness, the risk is significant enough to warrant taking precautions,” Myers notes.
To safeguard against these pests, Myers advises the use of EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, wearing protective clothing, and staying indoors during peak mosquito activity times around dawn and dusk. She also stresses the importance of thorough tick checks after any outdoor activity. “Focus on areas like the hairline, under the arms, and behind the knees,” she adds.
If a tick is found, Myers instructs to remove it with fine-tipped tweezers by pulling upward steadily to avoid leaving mouthparts in the skin. The tick should then be disposed of safely, avoiding crushing with fingers.
As for plant hazards, it is crucial to recognize and avoid contact with poison ivy, oak, and sumac. These plants release a sticky oil that causes an itchy rash upon contact. To prevent the oil from spreading, it is recommended to immediately wash the skin and any contaminated clothing.
“Myers concludes, “Whether it’s a tick bite or a brush with an irritating plant, it’s essential to be proactive about your health. If you experience severe symptoms or signs of infection, seek medical attention promptly.” With these precautions, summer explorers can enjoy the great outdoors while minimizing health risks.