Frequently Asked Questions on Ticks

These are the common questions we receive from our customers regarding ticks. If you have a question not addressed in this list, please contact us.

I have ticks in the backyard, how can I get rid of them?
If want to this yourself, this is very difficult, if not impossible to achieve. As ticks are very susceptible to desiccation, removing trees and shrubs will increase the amount of light to the ground, thereby decreasing the humidity levels and making conditions unfavorable for tick survival. Often this involves considerable environmental destruction and is not advisable. The presence of ticks in an area indicates that there are native animal hosts present (usually bandicoots) and this suggests that the environment is natural and healthy. If ticks are present, then it is best to undertake tick avoidance measures as discussed above. What we recommend that you seek Professional Pest Control for an inspection and guidance.

I had a severe reaction after removing a tick, what can I do?
If an individual reacts severely to a tick bite, then potentially a life threatening anaphylactic reaction may occur in the future and tick avoidance measures must be a priority. Until recently it was possible for such people to be desensitised, however this is no longer possible do to the non-availability of reagents.

How long does a tick have to be attached before paralysis occurs?
This varies with individuals and some may not even experience paralysis with a fully engorged tick. Generally symptoms of paralysis start showing 2-4 days after the tick has attached.

How can I protect my property against ticks?
We recommend to maintaining a preventive monthly service.

I've been bitten by a tick. What should I do?
There is no right and wrong way to handle a known tick bite. There are differing points of view but no hard evidence at this point to support either approach. You as a health consumer will need to work with your own doctor regarding this matter.

How do I treat tick bite?
Treatment is the same as that for mosquitoes; cold water and ice can be useful to relieve itching, although ice should not be applied directly to the skin. A variety of commercial preparations can be obtained from the chemist including Eurax® and Stingose®. In severe cases, oral antihistamines may have to be administered and if symptoms persist, a physician should be consulted.

How do I prevent tick bite?
A variety of methods exist to reduce the possibility of tick bite and prevention is best achieved via some form of personal protection. People who bushwalk in tick infested areas need to use an insect repellent, particularly one containing the chemical DEET, and this should be applied regularly to clothing. Wearing light colored clothing is useful as ticks can be more easily spotted. Bushland locations which are highly tick infested should be avoided.

How do I remove a tick from my skin?
Insect repellent may be applied to the tick, which will kill it. The tick should be removed with the aid of a pair of fine tipped forceps; the tick needs to be grasped as close the skin of the host as possible, and then forcibly removed.

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