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Tick Prevention in Children

A child bitten by a tick is at risk of developing a number of tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease. There are precautionary measures parents can take to prevent ticks from biting and attaching to a child.

  1. Cover Exposed Skin

    • According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ticks live in wet areas with high humidity. Ticks are often found in the woods and in fields with high grasses. If your child is going to be walking, hiking or playing in this type of area, cover as much of her skin as possible. She should dress in a light long-sleeved shirt and long pants, with the pant legs tucked inside long socks to prevent ticks from crawling up the leg. Pull long hair up into a bun or braid it.

    Use a Tick Repellent

    • DEET is a bug repellent that can be used on a child's skin and clothing. It prevents ticks from biting and is found in labeled bug sprays. Apply the DEET products to your child so that he does not touch the container and possibly get the repellent into his eyes or mouth.

    Protect Pets

    • By protecting pets, you can also protect children by ensuring that a tick that has attached itself to a dog or cat does not move to the child. There are a number of over-the-counter and prescription tick treatments for pets that help repel and/or kill ticks. Pet owners should check with their veterinarian before using any product.

    Wash Clothes and Hair

    • Wash your child's clothing and hair after she's been playing or hiking in an area where ticks could potentially live. Heat kills ticks, and by throwing clothing into a dryer, you can get rid of any ticks that may be stuck to clothes. Wash her hair with hot water to ensure that no ticks stuck in hair have a chance to attach to the skin.

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