Tiny nymph-stage deer ticks that carry the bacteria live in woods, tall grass and brush. They are most active in early summer and are hard to see when they bite children.
To prevent bites, shower after outdoor activities and do a nightly tick check on the ears, under the arms, around the waist, behind the knees and on the scalp. Remove ticks with fine tweezers by pulling upward. Use DEET repellent and consider permethrin-treated clothing. Watch for a spreading red rash or fever three to thirty days after a bite and see a doctor quickly. Antibiotics can treat Lyme disease in children.
Difficult words
- nymph — young stage of some insects before adultnymph-stage
- bacterium — a very small living thing that causes infectionbacteria
- tweezer — small metal tool used to pull or holdtweezers
- repellent — a substance that keeps insects or animals away
- scalp — skin on the top of the head
- antibiotic — medicine that kills bacteria and cures infectionsAntibiotics
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever found a tick on yourself or a child? What did you do?
- Which places on the body will you check each night for ticks?
- What other actions could you take to avoid tick bites in the woods?
Related articles
Which childhood food allergies are outgrown?
Many children outgrow milk and egg allergies, while peanut, tree nut, sesame and shellfish allergies often persist. Factors such as IgE levels, allergy severity and genetics affect whether a child becomes tolerant and which treatments help.
Blocking a key immune signal may prolong post-surgery pain
A study led by Geoffroy Laumet found that blocking the immune molecule TNF-α after surgery in mice made pain last longer. The authors warn this does not mean stopping all anti-inflammatory treatment and call for targeted approaches.
Wildfire smoke in late pregnancy linked to higher autism risk
A study of more than 200,000 births in Southern California found that exposure to wildfire smoke during the third trimester was associated with higher autism diagnoses by age five. Researchers say the results are not conclusive and need more study.
African leaders call for local funding of medical innovation
A group of African science leaders says Africa must develop and pay for its own medical innovations to improve health and rely less on uncertain international funding. They call for more national investment, reforms and stronger research systems.