Could This Pest Ruin Your BBQ?
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted July 29, 2024
We’ve all heard the warnings about ticks and Lyme disease.
But now there’s a new tick in town that’s causing quite a stir—and it doesn’t even spread Lyme.
Meet the lone star tick.
This aggressive little critter is making its way across the U.S., leaving a trail of concerned health experts in its wake.
If you haven’t heard about this menace yet, brace yourself—because this tick has some nasty tricks up its sleeve.
Lone star ticks are found primarily in the eastern, southeastern, and south-central United States and have expanded their range over the last few decades.
These ticks don’t spread Lyme disease, but they CAN transmit other serious illnesses, such as ehrlichiosis, tularemia, and Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness. However, their most bizarre calling card is a mysterious red meat allergy called Alpha-gal syndrome, which they’ve been linked to.
That’s right, one bite from this little creepy crawly could turn your delicious backyard barbecue into a dietary nightmare.
So, how do you protect yourself from this growing threat? Don’t worry—you don’t have to become a hermit. I’ll give you some practical steps to “tick-proof” yourself before your next outdoor event.
But first, let’s talk about how you can spot these ticks…
This species gets its name from the distinctive white spot or “lone star” found on the backs of adult females. Adult males are more difficult to identify but are less likely to bite. Smaller than the females, the male’s oval-shaped reddish-brown bodies have small white markings or streaks around the edge.
But you really need to watch out for the babies. Like many other tick species, these tiny terrors hunt in hungry “packs,” creating what some horrified observers have dubbed “tick bombs.”
Just remember, enjoying the great outdoors is vital for your health and well-being. So don’t let a fear of ticks hold you back.
Instead, follow these common-sense tips that can help keep you safe while you’re out there living life to the fullest.
- Dress smart: Wear light-colored clothing. It’s less appealing to ticks and makes them easier to spot.
- Do a full-body check: Give yourself a thorough once-over after spending time outdoors. Pay extra attention to your groin, underarms, and scalp.
- Laundry first: As soon as you get home, strip down and toss your clothes in the dryer on high for 20 minutes. The heat will zap any hitchhiking ticks.
- Go natural: Before heading out, apply some natural bug repellent. Look for rosemary, lemongrass, cedar, peppermint, thyme, or geraniol oil blends. Or try 2-undecanone, made from wild tomato oil.
- Stay vigilant: Watch for flu-like symptoms in the weeks after outdoor activities. If they crop up, see your doctor for a blood test.
So go ahead and plan that camping trip or afternoon hike. Now that you’re tick-aware, you’ll be able to focus on the beauty of nature instead of worrying about those unwanted passengers.
P.S. Summertime danger puts seniors at RISK.
Source:
Lone Star Tick – Amblyomma americanum, Department of Environmental Protection, [dep. pa. gov]
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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