Even though it is Winter you can still find ticks in Fairfax and some may even carry disease.
The blacklegged, or deer tick, is one of the three tick species commonly found in Fairfax County that can spread disease to humans. Blacklegged ticks have the potential to spread Lyme Disease. Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne illness in North America and Europe. Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. Deer ticks, which feed on the blood of animals and humans, can harbor the bacteria and spread it when feeding.
You're more likely to get Lyme disease if you live or spend time in grassy and heavily wooded areas where ticks carrying the disease thrive. It's important to take common-sense precautions in areas where Lyme disease is prevalent, and you can still find ticks in winter.
The Fairfax County Health Department reports Ticks are present throughout Fairfax County and are often found in wooded areas, brushy fields, along trails and around homes even in winter.
Preventing tick bites, controlling ticks around your yard and prompt removal of ticks are important ways to help prevent tick bites and the diseases that ticks may transmit.
The Fairfax County Health Department also offers a free tick identification service. This service does not test ticks for disease-causing agents for example Lyme Disease bacteria, and staff do not provide medical advice. However, this identification can be useful should you need to speak to your medical provider.
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