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A Model for Experimental Exposure of Humans to Larval Ixodes scapularis Ticks
Published on: December 1, 2023
Tick bite protection with permethrin-treated summer-weight clothing
Nathan J Miller1, Erin E Rainone, Megan C Dyer
1Center for Vector-Borne Disease, University of Rhode Island, 9 East Alumni Avenue, Suite 7, Kingston, RI 02881, USA.
Journal of Medical Entomology
|April 13, 2011
Summary
Permethrin-treated clothing significantly reduces tick bites by over three times compared to untreated clothing. Both commercial and at-home treatments are effective, especially on footwear, reducing tick attachment and increasing tick mortality.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Public Health
- Vector-Borne Disease Prevention
Background:
- Tick bites pose a significant risk for pathogen transmission, including Lyme disease.
- Personal protective measures, such as insect repellent-treated clothing, are crucial for preventing tick encounters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of permethrin-treated clothing in reducing tick bites.
- To compare the effectiveness of commercial versus do-at-home permethrin treatments.
- To assess the impact of permethrin treatment on different articles of clothing.
Main Methods:
- A controlled indoor study involved 15 volunteers exposed to nymphal Ixodes scapularis ticks.
- Participants wore either untreated or permethrin-treated summer clothing (T-shirt, shorts, socks, sneakers).
- Tick attachment and survival rates were recorded 2.5 hours post-exposure.
Main Results:
- Permethrin-treated clothing reduced overall tick bites by 3.36 times compared to untreated clothing.
- No significant difference in efficacy was found between commercial and do-at-home permethrin treatments.
- Permethrin-treated footwear (sneakers, socks) showed the highest reduction in tick bites (73.6 times fewer).
- Treated T-shirts and shorts also reduced tick bites (2.17 and 4.74 times fewer, respectively).
- Tick survival on treated clothing was significantly lower (22.6%) compared to untreated clothing (97.6%).
Conclusions:
- Permethrin-treated clothing is a highly effective tool for reducing tick bites and potential pathogen transmission.
- Treatment of footwear with permethrin offers substantial protection against tick attachment.
- Permethrin-treated clothing represents a viable strategy for personal protection against ticks during outdoor activities.
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