HEALTH
From Issue #16
Bug Basics
Taking the Sting out of Summer
One of the best parts of summer is having the time to do some of the things you really enjoy. This can mean long bike rides,
camping, hiking, and all kinds of outdoor activities. Whichever ones you’re involved in, you'll have more fun and be safer if you
know your bug basics.
BUSY BEES
Bees travel in a straight line back and forth from their
hives; avoid getting in their line of flight. Don't disturb
nests or hives. If you do get stung, check to see if the
stinger is still in the skin (bees sting only once,
leaving their stingers), but don't pull it out
because this allows more venom to escape.
Gently scrape it off with a flat object like the
dull edge of a knife. For pain and swelling, try
applying a paste of baking soda. For itching
and swelling, use an antihistamine cream.
Remember, wasps love sweet food, so keep
food and drinks covered while outside and
don't wear sweet-smelling perfumes, gels
or hairsprays.
MOSQUITOES
Mosquito bites, although not serious for most people, can be
uncomfortable. Prevent bites by using insect repellent; or diluted
citronella (an essential oil) on your skin or by placing candles around
you and covering as much skin as possible. Avoid being outside at
sundown, when mosquitoes are at their worst, and stay away from
areas of stagnant water; breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
DEER TICKS
Deer ticks are a major concern in some
parts of North America because they can
be Lyme disease carriers. Found most
commonly in the American Northeast,
Midwest and West, these ticks hide
mostly in shady, tall grass, although
they can be found in shrubs, lawns and
gardens as well. To avoid being bitten by a
tick, wear long pants tucked into socks or
boots to keep ticks off your legs.
Wear closed shoes (no sandals). After
your hike, check your body for ticks,
especially the insides of knees and elbows
and the neck just below the hairline. If you
find a tick, don't panic. Don't
grab it or squeeze it off. Instead, using
small tweezers, grasp the tick by the head
and pull it out, then kill it by placing it in
alcohol. Don't cover it with anything or try
to kill it while it's on the skin, as this could
release more toxins. Once the tick
is removed, watch the site for a rash — it
can begin up to one month following the
bite. If you're concerned, call your doctor.
