A California mom shared a photo showing an infectious disease she contracted as a way to warn others about the life-threatening risks of tick bites.
Jennifer Velasquez, who resides in San Diego, posted the horrifying image of her right leg which was shown covered in a severe red rash after visiting a pumpkin patch with her children two years back.
‘After seeing all the cute pictures of families at the pumpkin patches, this is a reminder for everyone, When you go to these pumpkin patches and petting zoos and all those fun fall activities, wear pants, long socks and shoes!’ Velasquez wrote in the picture post.
Jennifer Velasquez, of San Diego, California, posted a horrifying image of her right leg covered in a severe red rash after visiting a pumpkin patch
Velasquez said: ‘I couldn’t walk, my whole body was in pain, my hair fell out, and I almost died’
She warned about the possibility of picking up debilitating tick borne illnesses after she contracted Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and suffered several severe side effects for months and years following.
‘I couldn’t walk, my whole body was in pain, my hair fell out, and I almost died,’ Velasquez said.
‘I’m still healing from all this. Don’t be dumb and wear flip flops like me. CHECK FOR TICKS!,’ she reiterated further.
She warned about debilitating tick borne illnesses after contracting Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and suffering several severe side effects
‘I’m not saying don’t go to a pumpkin patch … Just be sure to cover up when you go, use repellent, and do a tick check when you get home. To my fellow southern Californians, I know its in the 80s and 90s but better to be safe than sorry. ‘
According to KFOR, in the United States, Oklahoma has had the most reported cases of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in recent years.
‘Since 2012, there have been approximately 2,000 cases of the illnesses among Oklahoma residents,’ the local news outlet confirmed earlier this month.
‘When you go to these pumpkin patches and petting zoos and all those fun fall activities, wear pants, long socks and shoes!’ Velasquez wrote in the picture post
Those who have contracted the disease will likely experience symptoms such as rash, fever, nausea, vomiting, lack of appetite and muscle pain.
According to the Centers for Disease Control And Prevention, ticks mostly flock to ‘grassy’ or ‘wooded areas’.
The pests may be a concern for humans and animals who spend ample time outdoors taking part in activities like camping, gardening or hunting.
‘Treat clothing and gear with products containing permethrin. Permethrin can be used to treat boots, clothing and camping gear and remain protective through several washings,’ the CDC suggests.
Velasquez revealed she is still healing from the traumatic illness she was dealt nearly two year ago