Medically reviewed by
Dr. Frank Moskos
McLeod Family Medicine Center

Small game, black bear, deer, turkey. In South Carolina, almost any time of the year there’s a hunting season. Your gear, boots, hat and hunting paraphernalia are ready to go.

Even if you are not into hunting, the weather calls us outside for most of the year. Whether hunting or just enjoying the outdoors, here are some tips for avoiding tick- or mosquito-borne illnesses.

TICK-BORNE ILLNESSES

Generally, the well-known tick-borne Lyme Disease is most prevalent in the northeast part of the country and relatively rare in South Carolina. There are only about 40 cases a year in SC, compared to more than 7,000 a year in New York State. However, ticks spread other diseases that are concerning.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, which is related to Lyme Disease, causes a red spotted rash, fevers, muscle aches and, in some cases, can be deadly. The incidence of this condition is much higher in South Carolina than Lyme Disease.

Both diseases are treatable with antibiotics, although in the worst cases, IV antibiotics may be required. In any case, both tick-borne illnesses can be irritating and uncomfortable. Prevention is key to protecting yourself.

PREVENTION
Whether hunting or simply going for a walk in the woods, prevent tick bites by tucking your pants legs into your socks. Physicians also recommend applying a DEET-based insect repellant spray on clothes and skin. Generally, 40% works well, which indicates the concentration and how long the product will be effective. Insect repellant has the additional benefit of warding off mosquitoes that deliver everything from an itchy bite to a whole range of dangerous diseases. In contrast to a mosquito bite, tick-bite victims rarely feel the insect’s presence at first.

Permethrin can be sprayed on pants, boots, and socks. More than just a simple insect repellant, Permethrin actually kills ticks, mosquitos, spiders, chiggers, and more than 55 kinds of insects. Avoid spraying Permethrin directly on the skin because it may cause a rash.

ACTION YOU CAN TAKE
The earlier these illnesses are treated, the fewer complications people have in the long run. After being outdoors, shower to wash off any unembedded ticks. It is also a good opportunity to do a full body tick check. If you can, look all over every part of your body. Pay particular attention to soft hidden parts of the body including the scalp, back of the knees, navel and groin.

If you can find and remove the ticks before they have been embedded for 24 hours, you can avoid most of the issues with tick diseases. If you have difficulty removing it, or the tick has been on the skin for more than 24 hours, see your doctor.

Find a Family Medicine Physician near you.