Ticks in Missouri: What You Need to Know and How to Protect Yourself

Ticks are a common concern for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and pet owners in Missouri, especially as the warmer months approach. These tiny, blood-sucking parasites can carry a variety of diseases, making it important to be aware of the risks they pose and how to protect yourself. Here's what you need to know about ticks in Missouri, including common species, how to avoid them, and what to do if you get bitten.

Common Ticks in Missouri

Missouri is home to several species of ticks, but the most commonly encountered are:

1. Deer Tick (Blacklegged Tick) – Known for carrying Lyme disease, the deer tick is prevalent in wooded areas and grassy fields. Its small size and reddish-brown color make it easy to miss, especially in its nymph stage.

2. American Dog Tick – Larger than the deer tick, this tick is commonly found in grassy areas and on animals. While it’s not a primary vector for Lyme disease, it can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) and tularemia.

3. Lonestar Tick – Identified by a distinctive white spot on its back, the lonestar tick is common in Missouri and can carry diseases like ehrlichiosis and southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI).

4. Brown Dog Tick – Typically found on dogs, these ticks can transmit diseases like ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis, though they are less likely to affect humans.

Why Ticks Are a Concern

Ticks are more than just an annoying pest—they can transmit serious diseases, some of which may have long-lasting health effects. Lyme disease, transmitted by the deer tick, is one of the most well-known tick-borne illnesses, but other diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever, babesiosis, and anaplasmosis are also concerns in Missouri.

How to Protect Yourself from Ticks

To reduce the risk of tick bites while enjoying the outdoors in Missouri, follow these simple guidelines:

1. Wear Protective Clothing – When venturing into wooded or grassy areas, wear long sleeves, long pants, and tuck your pants into your socks or boots to minimize skin exposure. Light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks.

2. Use Tick Repellent – Apply a repellent containing DEET or Picaridin to exposed skin, and use permethrin-based products on your clothing and gear. These can help repel ticks and other pests.

3. Stick to Trails – Stay on marked trails and avoid brushing up against vegetation where ticks tend to live. Ticks are often found in areas with tall grasses and dense brush.

4. Check for Ticks Regularly – After spending time outdoors, check your body, clothing, and pets for ticks. Pay close attention to hidden areas like underarms, behind the knees, and around the hairline.

5. Shower After Outdoor Activities – Showering soon after being outdoors can help wash away ticks before they have a chance to latch on.

6. Keep Your Yard Tidy – If you live in a tick-prone area, keep your yard well-maintained by trimming grass, clearing away brush, and creating tick-free zones by placing wood chips or gravel around your home.

What to Do If You Get Bitten

If you find a tick attached to your skin, it's important to remove it promptly and properly:

1. Use Fine-Tipped Tweezers – Grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible and pull straight out with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off.

2. Clean the Bite Area – Wash the area with soap and water, and apply antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection.

3. Monitor for Symptoms – Keep an eye on the bite site and your overall health. If you develop a rash, fever, or flu-like symptoms, or if the bite site forms a red ring (a sign of Lyme disease), seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion

Ticks in Missouri are a year-round concern, with their peak activity in the warmer months. By taking preventive measures, staying vigilant, and knowing what to do if you're bitten, you can reduce your risk of tick-borne illnesses and enjoy the outdoors safely. Always remember, a little awareness and preparation go a long way in keeping ticks at bay.