The Lanby’s Guide to Tick Prevention

Summer means more time outdoors, but it also means peak tick season.

At The Lanby, we're seeing more questions than ever about tick bites, Lyme disease, and how to protect yourself naturally while still enjoying the outdoors. And this year, the concern is warranted.

Why Is Tick Season Lasting Longer?

Ticks are thriving in warmer temperatures and milder winters. As temperatures stay above freezing for longer periods of the year, ticks remain active for more months and are expanding into new geographic regions. Researchers and public health officials have linked longer tick seasons and rising tick-borne illness rates to climate and environmental changes.

In many parts of the country, tick activity now begins as early as spring and can continue well into late fall.

Where and When Is Risk Highest?

While ticks can be found across the United States, the highest risk for Lyme disease remains in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Upper Midwest.

The greatest risk period is typically May through July, when immature ticks called nymphs are most active. Nymphs are incredibly small, about the size of a poppy seed, which makes them easy to miss during a tick check.

For New Yorkers spending weekends in the Hamptons, Hudson Valley, Connecticut, New Jersey, or other wooded and grassy areas this summer, vigilance is especially important.

What Is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted through the bite of an infected blacklegged (deer) tick.

Early symptoms can include:

• Fatigue
• Fever and chills
• Headache
• Muscle and joint aches
• A characteristic bullseye rash (though not everyone develops one)

If left untreated, Lyme disease can affect the joints, nervous system, and heart.

Why Prevention Matters

Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne illness in the United States.

More than 89,000 cases were officially reported to the CDC in 2023, but researchers estimate that approximately 476,000 Americans are diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year.

The good news? Lyme disease is largely preventable when ticks are identified and removed quickly.

The Lanby's Approach to Tick Prevention

We believe prevention starts with awareness and daily habits, not fear.

1. Use a Tick Repellent

Our Care Team favorites include:

• Ranger Ready Repellents — A picaridin-based repellent that provides long-lasting protection against ticks and other biting insects. We like it because it's highly effective, EPA-approved, and available in low- and no-scent formulas.
• 3 Moms Organics TickWise — A plant-powered repellent made with clean ingredients. We appreciate that it's kid and dog-friendly, making it a great option for families spending time outdoors.
• Tick Mitt — A simple tool that helps remove ticks from clothing, skin, and pets while you're still outdoors. We love it for making quick tick checks easy during hikes, walks, and other outdoor adventures.

Other natural options that also receive The Lanby Care Team's stamp of approval:

• Primally Pure Nature Spray — A DEET-free botanical spray made with essential oils that help deter ticks and other insects. We like it for its clean ingredients and family-friendly formula.
• TerraShield Spray — An essential oil-based outdoor spray that's easy to keep on hand for walks, hikes, and summer gatherings. We appreciate its pleasant scent and plant-based approach.

While we appreciate the natural alternatives, they should be viewed as one layer of protection, not your only line of defense against ticks. For higher-risk environments, consider combining repellents with protective clothing, daily tick checks, and prompt tick removal.

2. Perform Daily Tick Checks

This is the single most important habit.

The CDC notes that Lyme disease transmission generally requires a tick to remain attached for more than 24 hours. Finding and removing ticks early can significantly reduce your risk.

After spending time outdoors:

• Check your scalp and hairline
• Behind the ears
• Under the arms
• Around the waistline
• Behind the knees
• Around the ankles
• On children and pets

3. Shower Soon After Outdoor Exposure

A quick shower can help wash off unattached ticks and provides an opportunity for a thorough skin check.

4. Dress Strategically

When hiking or spending time in wooded areas:

• Wear light-colored clothing
• Tuck pants into socks
• Stay on clear trails
• Avoid brushing against tall grass and dense vegetation

5. Support Overall Immune Health

While no supplement can prevent Lyme disease, maintaining a healthy immune system through quality sleep, nutrient-dense foods like fruits and vegetables, stress management, and regular movement supports overall resilience and recovery.

Final Thoughts

Natural sprays can help. Repellents can help. Protective clothing can help.

But nothing replaces a thorough tick check.

If you're spending time in high-exposure areas this summer, it is essential to make tick checks part of your daily routine.

A few minutes of prevention can help reduce your risk of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses, allowing you to enjoy the season with greater peace of mind.

Follow along with The Lanby for more science-backed wellness tips, preventive health insights, and functional medicine guidance to help you get well, better.