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Tick Season in the Hudson Valley: How to Prevent Tick Bites and Lyme Disease

Published

4 months ago

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As residents spend more time outdoors enjoying warmer weather, it’s important to remember that tick season is in full swing across the Hudson Valley. Ticks are most active during the spring, summer, and early fall, and the risk of encountering an infected tick remains high throughout the region.

Ticks can carry several diseases, including Lyme disease—the most common tick-borne illness in New York—as well as ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and the rare but serious Powassan virus.

Fortunately, a few simple precautions can help reduce the risk of tick bites and illness.

Avoid Tick Habitats

Ticks are commonly found in wooded areas, tall grass, brush, and leaf litter. When hiking or spending time outdoors:

  • Stay on clear, well-traveled trails.
  • Walk in the center of paths.
  • Avoid sitting directly on the ground or stone walls.
  • Steer clear of tall grass and dense vegetation whenever possible.

Check for Ticks Often

After spending time outdoors:

  • Check clothing and exposed skin frequently.
  • Shower within two hours of coming indoors.
  • Perform a full-body tick check.
  • Pay close attention to areas under the arms, behind the knees, around the ears, and in the hair.
  • Thoroughly check children and pets as well.

Remove Ticks Promptly

If you find a tick attached to your skin:

  • Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
  • Pull upward slowly and steadily without twisting.
  • Clean the bite area and your hands afterward.
  • Dispose of the tick by placing it in alcohol, sealing it in a bag, wrapping it in tape, or flushing it down the toilet.

Avoid using petroleum jelly, nail polish, heat, or other home remedies to remove ticks.

Dress for Protection

When spending time in tick-prone areas:

  • Wear long sleeves and long pants.
  • Choose light-colored clothing to make ticks easier to spot.
  • Tuck pants into socks and shirts into pants.
  • Wear closed-toe shoes.
  • Tie back long hair or wear a hat.

Use Insect Repellent

Apply an EPA-approved insect repellent according to label directions to help keep ticks away.

Watch for Symptoms

One of the most recognized signs of Lyme disease is a rash that may resemble a bullseye or target. However, Lyme disease rashes can vary in appearance, and some people may not develop a rash at all.

Other symptoms can include:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Muscle and joint aches

Anyone who develops symptoms after a tick bite should contact a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment are highly effective and can help prevent more serious complications.

Stay Tick Aware

Whether you’re hiking, gardening, walking the dog, or enjoying a local park, taking a few preventive steps can help keep you and your family safe throughout tick season.

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Community

Milla News: Rockland County’s Unofficial Mayor

Published

3 days ago

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October 12, 2026

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Milla News has become one of Rockland County’s most recognizable social media personalities, earning a loyal following of more than 40,000 people on Instagram and building a reputation for making local news engaging for audiences of all ages.

Affectionately known as the “unofficial Mayor of Rockland County,” Milla has found a unique way to connect residents with the people, places and stories that shape their community.

Beyond his growing presence on social media, Milla is a co-owner of New York Is a Nationality, a popular clothing brand that celebrates New York identity and culture.

A graduate of Ramapo High School, Milla is also focused on giving back to the community that helped shape him. Through his work with local high school students, he shares insights into building a brand, using social media effectively and developing entrepreneurial skills.

By combining local news, social media and mentorship, Milla is helping inspire the next generation of young entrepreneurs while bringing Rockland County residents together through stories that reflect their community.

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Community

Family Emergency Preparedness: Is Your Family Ready?

Published

4 days ago

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October 11, 2026

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Emergencies Can Happen Anytime: Is Your Family Prepared?

Emergencies rarely happen when it is convenient. A severe storm, extended power outage, house fire, medical emergency or other unexpected event can quickly disrupt everyday life. Taking a little time now to prepare can make a major difference when something goes wrong.

Here are some simple steps every household should consider.

Build an Emergency Kit

Keep basic supplies in a place that is easy to access. Your kit should include:

  • Bottled water and several days of nonperishable food
  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • A battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • First-aid supplies
  • Necessary medications and medical supplies
  • Phone chargers and backup power banks
  • Blankets and warm clothing
  • Copies of important documents
  • Cash in small denominations
  • Basic tools and household supplies

Remember to check your supplies periodically and replace expired food, batteries and medications.

Have a Plan for Power Outages

Winter storms, high winds and equipment failures can leave homes without electricity for hours or even days. Know where your flashlights are, keep devices charged and have alternative ways to stay warm.

If you use a generator, never operate it inside a home, garage or other enclosed space. Generators must be kept outdoors and away from doors, windows and vents because of the risk of deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.

Know What to Do in a House Fire

Make sure everyone in your household knows two ways to get out of every bedroom and where to meet outside.

Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms regularly and replace batteries as recommended. If a fire occurs, get outside and stay outside. Do not go back inside for pets or belongings.

Prepare for Severe Weather

Severe thunderstorms, high winds, flooding and winter storms can develop quickly. Keep an eye on weather alerts and know where you would go in your home if you need to shelter.

During a severe storm, bring outdoor furniture and other loose objects inside when possible. Avoid driving through flooded roads — even a relatively small amount of moving water can be dangerous.

Be Ready for a Medical Emergency

Keep a well-stocked first-aid kit at home and learn basic first aid and CPR if you can.

Make sure family members know where important medications are located and have a list of medications, allergies and emergency contacts readily available. For a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

Make a Family Communication Plan

If an emergency separates family members, everyone should know how to reconnect.

Choose an emergency contact outside your immediate area and establish a meeting place. Make sure children know their full name, address and how to call 911.

Don’t Forget Your Pets

Pets need an emergency plan, too. Keep food, water, medications, leashes, carriers and copies of veterinary records with your emergency supplies. Identify pet-friendly shelters or hotels before an emergency occurs.

A Few Minutes of Preparation Can Save Precious Time

You do not have to prepare everything at once. Start with a basic emergency kit, make a family communication plan and learn what emergencies are most likely in your area.

The goal isn’t to expect the worst. It’s to be ready so that, when an emergency does happen, you can focus on keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.

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