MU Extension recommends treating clothing to repel ticks

COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension specialists are urging farmers, gardeners, hunters, fishermen and other outdoor enthusiasts to take precautions against ticks by treating clothing with permethrin, a highly effective repellent that both repels and kills ticks.

The reminder comes as tick activity increases across the Midwest. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show emergency department visits for tick bites are at their highest levels in nearly a decade, with spring marking the start of peak exposure.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services reports that tickborne illnesses such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis and tularemia have all been identified in the state, and overall case numbers have been trending upward in recent years.

Tickborne illness typically peaks in late May, says University of Missouri Extension nutrition and health specialist Eden Stewart, whose team has helped raise awareness about alpha-gal syndrome, a tick-related allergy to red meat.

“Missouri is considered a hotspot for the lone star tick, which can trigger alpha-gal syndrome,” Stewart says. “Some research suggests that a significant portion of Missourians may carry antibodies linked to this condition.”

Prevention is key. In addition to alpha-gal syndrome, ticks in Missouri can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

“May is prime time for ticks, but you can reduce your risk by wearing EPA-registered repellents and permethrin-treated clothing,” says Emily Althoff, MU and Lincoln University urban entomologist.

You can apply permethrin to boots, clothing and camping gear before heading outdoors. Generally, permethrin remains effective for six weeks or through six washings. You can also buy pretreated clothing and gear.

The Environmental Protection Agency has information on choosing insect repellents. You can find information about permethrin from the National Pesticide Information Center.

“Always read and follow product instructions,” Althoff says. “The CDC recommends avoiding products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD on children under age 3. Another helpful tip: apply sunscreen first, then insect repellent.”

After spending time outdoors, check yourself, children and pets for ticks and remove any promptly. Seek medical care if you develop a rash or fever.

If you find a tick, use tweezers to pull it straight out without twisting. Do not use heat, alcohol or lighter fluid.

Mosquito season also begins in May

May also marks the start of mosquito season in Missouri. Mosquitoes are more than a nuisance; they can carry diseases such as West Nile virus, which has spiked in the state in recent years.

Althoff offers tips to reduce mosquito exposure:

• Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs, such as in buckets, old tires, birdbaths and wading pools.
• Use approved insect repellents and insecticides as needed.
• Wear long sleeves and pants when possible.
• Replace outdoor lighting with “bug” lights that attract fewer insects, and consider repellents with heating elements such as lanterns, torches or coils.
• Check window and door screens for holes and repair them.

Simple preventive steps can help Missourians enjoy the outdoors while reducing their risk from ticks and mosquitoes, Stewart says.

Videos

• Know How To Protect Yourself From Alpha-Gal Syndrome with MU Extension agronomist Tim Schnakenberg.
• Emily Althoff talks about how ticks find their hosts and how to remove ticks safely.
• Understanding Alpha-Gal Syndrome: How a Tick Bite Turns Your Taste Buds Against You” with Benjamin Casterline, MU assistant professor of dermatology.
• Know the Signs of Alpha-Gal Syndrome with Amber Allen, MU Extension field specialist in human development.

More resources

• MU Extension has recently released five guides on alpha-gal syndrome that are available for free download.
• Missouri Tickborne Disease Story Map, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.