KENT COUNTY, Mich. — Spring is on the horizon! However, according to the Kent County Health Department, that means so is a heavy flea and tick season.
During the cold winter months, ticks go into a low-energy state. They hide deep in the layer of debris found in the forest floors and grassy areas where they live and use the heat of the earth to stay warm. When snow falls, it even helps to insulate them.
Brendan Earl, the supervising sanitarian in the Kent County Health Department, said since this winter was so mild and the snow and frost didn't get very deep into the ground, even more ticks than usual will be coming out to bite people.
In addition to this, Earl said since it's getting warmer earlier, the ticks will also be out sooner.
He said there's no need for people to avoid being outdoors entirely, but to be aware of the threat a heavy tick season poses.
The Kent County Health Department recommends using tick-repelling bug sprays, wearing layers and carefully checking for ticks before going back inside.
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