Prevent tick bites while outdoors

The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency has issued a reminder for residents to take measures to prevent tick bites while still enjoying the outdoors.

Tick exposure can occur year-round, but ticks are most active during warmer months, including September.

The agency said families spending more time at home and social distancing might be outdoors more than usual, increasing chances of being exposed to ticks.

Ticks live in grassy, brushy or wooded areas, and even on animals. Spending time outside walking the dog, camping, gardening or hunting could bring people in close contact with ticks.

Agency officials said it’s not unusual for people get ticks in their own yard or neighborhood.