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Protecting Yourself from Insects

Jul. 4 2024 Safety By Pattison Agriculture

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Protecting Yourself from Insects 

As we enjoy the warm weather and sunshine, it’s essential to remember that summer can also bring an increase in bug activity. Mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects can be a nuisance and even pose health risks. 

Why Protecting Yourself is Important 

Mosquitoes and ticks can transmit diseases like West Nile virus and Lyme disease. These diseases can cause serious health issues, ranging from mild to severe, and even life-threatening complications. 

Tips for Protecting Yourself at Work 

1. Wear Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing. Always follow product instructions and reapply as directed. 

2. Wear Protective Clothing: Cover up with long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Tucking pant legs into socks can also help prevent ticks from crawling up your legs. 

3. Avoid Peak Bug Hours: Mosquitoes and ticks are most active during dawn and dusk. Try to minimize outdoor activities during these times. 

4. Stay in Well-Ventilated Areas: Avoid areas with low airflow or stagnant water, where bugs are more likely to thrive. 

5. Remove Standing Water: Regularly check your work area for any sources of standing water, such as flower vases, pet water dishes, or clogged drains. Remove any unnecessary sources of standing water to reduce bug breeding grounds. 

6. Check Yourself Regularly: Conduct regular self-checks for ticks and mosquitoes after spending time outdoors. Use a mirror to inspect hard-to-see areas like the back of your neck and behind your ears.

7. Tell someone if you have been stung by a bee if you are not sure if you are allergic. Monitor your symptoms and call for help if you suspect an allergic reaction is occurring.


American dog tick

  • Most common tick in Saskatchewan
  • Do NOT transmit Lyme Disease
  • Twice as big as a deer tick
  • White marks hear head

Blacklegged (deer) tick

  • Occasionally found in Saskatchewan 
  • Can carry Lyme Disease and other diseases
  • Very small - less than 3mm

Preventing tick bites

  • Wear pants, a long-sleeved shirt and closed-toe shoe or boots.
  • Use insect repellent containing DEET or lcaridin.
  • Check yourself, your children and pets after being outdoors.

Tick removal

  • Remove any attached ticks promptly with tweezers
  • Grasp the tick's head as close to the skin as possible and gently pull straight out.

Symptoms

  • Early symptoms may include fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue or swollen lymph nodes. 
  • A red 'bulls-eye' rash may occur with in 4-20 days.

Treatment

  • Most cases can be successfully treated with antibiotics.