When are they most infectious?

Life Cycle of Black-Legged Ticks

Two Year Life Cycle Spring – eggs hatch into larvae Feed once Molt into nymphs Dormant for fall and winter

Life Cycle of Black-Legged Ticks Two Year Life Cycle Year 2 Nymphs feed May - July May transmit disease-causing organisms Humans or wild/domestic animals

Life Cycle of Black-Legged Ticks Two Year Life Cycle Year 2 Nymphs molt into adult males and females in fall Females feed on deer/humans Lay eggs and die Males attach to host and wait for females Do not take blood meal

Life Cycle of Black-Legged Ticks Two Year Life Cycle Conclusion – Tick most infectious when? Nymph Phase Adult (female) stage

Life Cycle of Black-Legged Ticks Preventive Measures Walk in center of trails Light colored clothing – ticks more visible Tuck in pants and shirts Use repellent containing Deet Shed clothing afterwards body check and shower Wash clothes immediately Check pets

Life Cycle of Black-Legged Ticks Tick Removal Risk of disease small if tick removed right away One to two day attachment for Lyme’s transmission Don’t panic! Grasp with tweezers close to mouth Slowly pull straight outward Don’t squeeze body Wash area and apply antiseptic Watch for signs of disease