It’s Tick Season—Stay Safe While Enjoying the Outdoors!

With warmer weather drawing people outdoors for hiking, gardening, and recreation, the Clay County Health Department is reminding residents and visitors that tick season is in full swing.

Ticks are most active this time of year, particularly in wooded and grassy areas common across the North Georgia and Western North Carolina mountains. While most tick bites are harmless, some can transmit serious illnesses such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other tick-borne infections.

Health officials recommend a few simple preventive steps to protect yourself, your family, and your pets:

• Wear long sleeves and pants when possible, tucking pants into socks or boots for added protection.

• Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or other EPA-approved ingredients before heading outside.

• Avoid tall grass, brush, and leaf litter where ticks are most likely to wait for a host.

• Check yourself, children, and pets thoroughly after being outdoors, paying close attention to the scalp, armpits, groin, and behind the knees.

• Shower soon after coming inside to wash off any unattached ticks and make it easier to spot any that may have latched on.

“A little prevention goes a long way in keeping everyone safe,” the Clay County Health Department emphasized. “Enjoy the outdoors—just be tick aware!”

Residents who find an attached tick should remove it promptly using fine-tipped tweezers, grasping close to the skin and pulling upward with steady, even pressure. If symptoms such as fever, rash, headache, or fatigue develop in the following weeks, contact a healthcare provider right away and mention any recent tick exposure.