The Oklahoma Tick Invasion Has Begun so Beware & Protect Yourself This Summer

Doctors and health experts across the state are warning Oklahomans about the recent increase in ticks, especially Lonestar Tick populations and activity. Thanks to such a mild winter, you'll want to be really proactive this spring and summer.

PROTECT YOURSELF, YOUR FAMILY, AND PETS FROM TICKS THIS SUMMER

If bitten you could have a severe, possibly life-threatening reaction that could have long-term health effects. Any tick is bad, but the Lonestar Tick has already caused infections in people across the Sooner State.

Any tick bite and be dangerous and cause severe reactions and illness so be aware

Most people are just hearing about the Lonestar Tick and the assumption is they carry Lyme Disease. In a wild twist of nature, the Lonestar Tick carries a bacteria that can cause severe reactions, swelling, rash, and all kinds of other symptoms called STARI (Southern tick-associated rash illness).

That's not even the worst of it.

Some people who are bitten by the Lonestar Tick come down with AGS (Alpha-gal Syndrome). It's a severe allergy to red meats and all products made from mammals including milk and milk products. Something to do with the fat content and a sudden allergic reaction to it. Those who suffer from AGS can have reactions that can be life-threatening, the same as other food allergies like peanuts and shellfish.

Hit play on the video below to learn more about the Lonestar Tick & AGS

KOCO News Channel 5 (ABC) out of Oklahoma City, OK. did a featured story and article on the Lonestar Tick a while back in 2022.

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Imagine suddenly contracting AGS and never being able to enjoy a steak, hamburger, hotdog, or even a glass of milk for the rest of your life.

Experts say the symptoms of AGS can eventually go away, but I have a nephew who hasn't been able to eat a hotdog or brat at the family July 4th picnic in almost a decade.

They're creeping around just about everywhere so protect yourself from ticks

Unfortunately, Oklahoma is listed as one of the few states where Lonestar Ticks can be found and where they are active. So how do you protect yourself and your family and pets? Ticks can be found any time of the year and season but they are most active and prevalent during the spring and summer months.

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Since we'll all be spending lots of time outdoors over the next couple of months what can you do to avoid being bitten? Ticks love the woods, tall grass, and areas with lots of vegetation they can hide in. When you're in places like this you'll want to wear pants, long sleeves, and use insect spray that contains DEET.

Visit the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) for helpful tips on how to protect yourself and prevent tick bites, click here to learn more. Be on the lookout for ticks especially Lonestar Ticks.