| Date: | 05/13/2026 |
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The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is observing a high level of tick activity this year and is urging the public to take precautions while enjoying parks, trails, forests and other outdoors spaces this season. Ticks are bugs that feed on the blood of mammals, birds, or reptiles. Black-legged (deer) ticks and dog ticks are found throughout Massachusetts and may spread different disease-causing germs when they bite you. Tick-borne illnesses, including Lyme disease can be very severe and taking steps to avoid tick bites is important. Based on guidance from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), DCR strongly recommends the following precautions:
- Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves, pants, and closed-toe shoes in wooded or grassy areas in tick-prone areas. Tuck pants into socks, when possible, and wear light-colored clothing to make ticks easier to detect.
- Insect Repellent: Apply EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing.
- Tick Checks: Conduct thorough tick checks on yourself, children, and pets after outdoor activities. Pay close attention to hidden areas like underarms, behind knees and ears, and around the hairline.
- Awareness: Educate yourself and others about the signs and symptoms of tick-borne illnesses, such as fever, rash, and fatigue.
Please visit the state’s websites for more information on tick prevention and tick-borne diseases.
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