Experts unveil preventive measures for Lyme disease

Lyme disease is not only a potentially serious disease, but one that often is missed by physicians, which makes prevention more important. The only way to get Lyme disease is from the bite of an infected deer tick. The best prevention, then, is to avoid deer and their ticks. According to many experts, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics, fencing can discourage deer from entering your yard.

White-tail deer are the favorite hosts of deer ticks, and keeping them off your property is important during the warm summer months, the peak season for ticks. According to Jason Wiles, wildlife control expert and general manager of DeerBusters.com, "deer fencing is the most effective means for excluding deer."

There are many types of fencing available, and the choice depends on how large, permanent and strong you want your fence to be. Cost, safety, value, aesthetics and practicality are factors to consider. You can purchase kits that are removable after planting season to keep deer and their ticks out of the garden where you spend most of your time, sturdy woven wire fences in rolls for large lawn areas to keep deer ticks away from where you children play, or invisible web fencing that won't detract from your landscaping.

"Deer fencing is available in a variety of sizes, styles, and prices," says Wiles. The fencing's strength is judged by breaking load. "Also consider ease of installation and whether the fencing comes with a warranty," added Wiles.

Wearing long-sleeved clothing when in long grassy areas and woods helps cover areas where ticks can attach. If you get bitten by a tick, remove the tick as soon as possible and be sure to remove the tick's head.

Various deer repellants and scare devices can help deter deer when fencing is not a viable alternative. For additional information on deer control products, visit wildlife control retailer DeerBusters at www.deerbusters.com.

SOURCE DeerBusters