The warmth of summer is finally here, which means we will spend a lot of time having fun outside! This also means an increased exposure to ticks and chiggers. These little creatures can be an issue for anyone, but for individuals with developmental disabilities, their impacts can be particularly challenging. We are aware that for individuals with sensory sensitivities, chemical insect repellents can be intolerable. As a gentler alternative, individuals can use essential oils such as rose geranium or lemon eucalyptus on their extremities. If full body checks are difficult on individuals who love to be on the move, a lint roller can be used to quickly clear clothing and the body of any sneaky critters. Lastly, we want to recognize that ticks and chiggers can be a serious concern for individuals who struggle with dermatillomania (skin picking). We will take particular caution to avoid tall grasses and uncut trails during this time to try our best at minimizing exposure. For these individuals, we suggest lightweight and long clothing that will act as a barrier between the skin and these potential irritants.
It will also be important to stay hydrated this summer. In these upcoming summer months, please pack extra liquids that your loved one is likely to enjoy most. If getting down water is hard, other beverages are better than nothing at all.
Signs
Chigger bites often appear as small and very itchy bumps that may appear red or irritated. Tick bites often begin unnoticeable, but can spread into a circular rash, often known as the "bullseye". The most common areas of tick bites include behind the knee, around the belt line, armpits, and neck/ears.
Symptoms
When signs of contact with these critters appear, it is important to watch for the following symptoms. In Virginia, the biggest concerns associated with tick bites are often Lyme disease (LD) and an acquired allergy to red meat.
For LD, the bullseye-shaped rash discussed in the Signs section is often the first indicator. Once this rash appears, it is common for other flu-like symptoms to follow, such as joint pain, fever, headache, and swollen glands. These symptoms can escalate quickly, so it is important to stay alert for any progression.
The bite of a lone star tick can lead to the development of a red meat allergy. A shared molecule, alpha-gal (found in both tick saliva and mammalian meat), can trigger an allergic reaction in individuals who have been bitten. If you find a lone star tick on yourself, be cautious when consuming meat afterward. The allergic reaction is often delayed by several hours, so it is recommended to observe for symptoms over an extended period after the first time you eat red meat after being bitten.
Solutions
When you have spotted a tick on you, the proper removal of it is very important. Steps for the removal of a tick can be found in the Helpful Links section in the article titled "What to Do after a Tick Bite".
The most important step is discussing the best options for you or your loved one with your healthcare provider.
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