As spring and warm weather approaches, it’s once again time to watch out for one of nature’s nastiest little creatures.

The deer tick, Ixodes scapularis.

This tick is very prevalent in our area and cases have been on the rise over the last few years.

Whether walking the Bridges or any wooded or brushy area, please take the following precautions for maximum protection:

Walk the center of the  trail and do not  brush the vegetation along it.

Wear light colored long sleeved shirts and pants with high socks. Then tuck your pants cuffs inside your high socks. Wear a hat.

Insect repellents containing 20-30% DEET discourages ticks but be sure to read the directions. Many of these repellents should only to be applied to your clothing and not to the skin.

Before you hop in the car to head home, do a tick check on yourself and the children. Remove any you find from your clothing. When you get home you may want to do a closer inspection.

There are treatments and vaccines available for the disease, but the best thing is to avoid it getting it all together.