Deer tick season peaks during early spring to mid fall, depending on the region of the country you are in. Deer ticks can be found in the Eastern and Southeastern U.S., as well as the Mid Western region.
Deer ticks live and feed on their primary host, the white-tailed deer. Most deer tick activity occurs in areas where these deer are located.
Deer ticks are active year-round and can be most dangerous in terms of disease transmission in the nymph stage of their life cycle. This is typically when they will contract Lyme disease from an infected host. Most deer ticks get Lyme disease from white-footed mice. They become carriers, or vectors, of the disease at this point. Deer ticks will spread the disease to the next host they inhabit, which can be white-tailed deer, or other large mammals, including humans.
When you are headed outdoors in an area known to have deer ticks, take the necessary precautions to stay safe. Use a DEET-based insect repellant on your clothing and any exposed skin. Be sure to wear clothing that is white or light in color. This will make it easier to see the tiny deer ticks. Wear a hat and tie back long hair. Also, make sure if you are out for extended periods of time, that you check yourself regularly for deer ticks.
Deer ticks cannot transmit their diseases immediately. Usually, up to 45 minutes is needed for a deer tick to begin to transmit Lyme disease. Perform a check on yourself every half hour to ensure you are not being bitten.
The best way to prevent Lyme disease is to avoid deer tick bites entirely. By keeping yourself protected year-round in areas where deer ticks are prevalent, you can stay safe.