Ask the Doc: How Can I Protect My Family and Buddies from Ticks?

Know your adversary. Female blacklegged ticks (also called deer ticks) are considered more dangerous than males of this species because they attach and become engorged with blood, like the tick pictured. While feeding, they can transmit a parasite that invades your bloodstream and causes babesiosis, which can be treated. Our expert, tick scientist Robyn Nadolny, offers tips for protection against ticks and how to mail ticks for identification by the Defense Health Agency-Public Health’s MilTICK service so you can get medical treatment if you’re infected. (DHA-Public Health photo by Graham Snodgrass)