Here is a thought concerning the ticks. Hopefully some Medical types can comment. Lyme Disease is contracted from ticks. The other day I was watching TV and an ad comes on for pet dogs. They were pushing a pill that the dog is given once a month to ward off fleas AND ticks. So why cannot the drug companies develop a similar product for humans so that AT thru hikers would not have too be so concerned about the ticks?
_George Bondor_Ticks and Lyme Disease
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#1
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#2
It'll never be widely marketed because humans are not commonly exposed to ticks like a dog or wildlife, but the drugs used for this purpose in dogs are relatively safe and could theoretically be used in people. It's a risk/reward type of thing. Any drug carries some risk so why expose someone for minimal reward? No drug company would go through the exhaustive expense to get this cleared for use in humans for the relatively few who might benefit from it (thru-hikers).
_MSPath_
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#3
The pill contains 2 chemicals fipronil and (S)-methoprene designed to make their way to the oil glands in your pets fur. These chemicals will kill fleas and ticks. Humans don't have fur nor oil glands of this type. It would not work for humans to take this medication. But you have a valid point. Such a medication could be developed for humans and if the drug companies could make money from it we would already have it.
_Francis_
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#4
This preventative is pretty nasty and I hate using it on my dogs. The best bet is to do daily inspection and get doxycycline if you find an attached one. Ticks are out in full force in VT right now. Be aware. Also the vaccine does not prevent Lyme but does protect your pets kidneys should the get Lyme.
_Marti/swannee_
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#5
Some here may remember that there was a vaccine which underwent blind testing for humans some years ago. (I forget what it's called...maybe "Double Blind"?) Anyway, some hikers here in PA took part in it. There were problems regarding secondary effects and also profit for the drug manufacturers. (Was it called Lymerix?) I don't believe it ever became available, and since then Lyme Disease and other tick borne illnesses have increased dramatically.
Any person who walks through grass or woods may be exposed, not just Thru Hikers. Also, ticks may come off one’s pet and prefer you. Undiagnosed Lyme can ruin your life.
Cathy Spreen has written a book, “Compendium of Tick-Borne Disease: A Thousand Pearls”. This is an expensive text book, but if you are interested, contact me and I will forward an article about the author and the book.
_Lady Di_
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#6
Here's a link (if it will show) to Part 1 of more about "Hidden in the Leaves" on YouTube. Very informative for those who are interested. My DH and I have both had it. It's no fun! Got it in our own back yard, too.
_Lady Di_
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#7
Thanks to all who responded! My question is answered. I also very much appreciate the professional and civil tone of the responses. Very refreshing!
_George Bondor_