Hunters Cautioned To Protect Themselves From Lyme Disease & Rabies

 

If you hunt, you should be aware that it can put you at risk for two  common diseases that can be prevented. These two diseases are Lyme disease and rabies. The Livingston  County Department of Health offers information about each disease and tips for you below. 

Lyme disease is transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected tick. Typical symptoms include fever,  headache, fatigue, and a circular skin rash with a target-like appearance. Tips to stay safe from Lyme disease  while hunting include: 

∙ Wear insect repellant or use odorless permethrin on clothing 

∙ Tuck your pants into socks, and shirt into pants 

∙ Check for ticks daily 

∙ Shower soon after being outdoors 

Rabies is transmitted through direct contact such as broken skin or mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, or  mouth of an infected animal. Symptoms can include general weakness or discomfort, fever, or headache.  Tips to stay safe from rabies while hunting include: 

∙ Staying clear of animals that have trouble walking, is drooling, or has an appearance of “drunkenness,”  aggression or even tameness 

∙ Wear gloves when dressing or butchering game 

∙ Wash hands thoroughly afterward