New York Times The mere thought of ticks makes our skin crawl. And the diseases they spread are only getting more common.
In fact, the number of tick-borne illnesses reported each year to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has more than doubled over the past two decades (though during the pandemic there was a drop in reported cases and treatment sought).
These vile little creatures transmit Lyme disease, babesiosis, anaplasmosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis, among others, and symptoms can range from swollen joints to meat allergies.
Since prevention is better than having to seek treatment, we’ve compiled our favorite picks and the advice to keep in mind as you head outdoors this summer. Treat your clothing and gear with permethrin. Treating items with the insect repellent permethrin has been shown to help prevent tick bites. Simply spray permethrin on clothing and gear (especially shoes), and then wait for it to dry. Sawyer Products Permethrin Fabric Treatment is a top pick in our guide to the best bug repellents.
Note that permethrin is very dangerous to cats when it’s wet, but it’s not harmful when dry. So keep your furry friends away from any items you spray with permethrin until it dries. For maximum effectiveness, reapply after about six washings or every six weeks.