Ticks

• Ticks suck the blood of vertebrates for food. Ticks have the potential to pass along diseases, including Lyme disease, from one host to another. Hard ticks, the most common variety, come out in the warm-weather months. They are found in areas of tall vegetation and, along with carrying diseases, can cause toxic reactions in humans. They will host for several days, while the less common soft ticks will host for short periods of time. Soft ticks are found in habitats such as bird colonies and bat caves. They have severe bites that are potentially toxic and can spread disease. Using products that contain DEET when enjoying the outdoors can help protect humans from the risks of ticks. Ticks should be removed immediately when spotted.
  
  

Chiggers

• Found in forests, scrub brush and grass-filled areas, chiggers are also harmful if in the larval stage. In this stage, chiggers are parasitic and will feed on a host for days by digging into the skin. They seek constricted areas, including the top of socks at the band. Bites will become itchy and can grow into bacterial infections. DEET will help repel chiggers, and over-the-counter ointment can help reduce itching.
  
  

Mosquitoes

• The very first documented case of West Nile virus in Oregon was in 2004. Since then, the number of cases in eastern Oregon and beyond has grown, but not at an alarming rate. Mosquitoes can also spread other diseases, including encephalitis. Avoiding outdoor time at dusk and dawn, using DEET and wearing long clothing can help reduce risk. Cleaning out gutters and removing items that collect water can also help reduce the population of mosquitoes.
  
  

Mites

• Various types of mites, including follicle and rat mites, are found throughout Oregon. Most of these mites will bite, creating an itchy rash on humans. Continued scratching may cause blisters and infections to form. Bird and fowl mites and scabies create intense rashes and scratchy blisters if they come in contact with a human. House dust mites do not bite, but their presence may cause allergic reactions and asthma/breathing problems. Stored product mites can also create respiratory problems in humans.