Greetings from the Chewonki Health Center! As we gear up for another exciting summer here on Chewonki Neck I wanted to take the time to let you know about our efforts to guard against ticks.

Our Tick Prevention Efforts at Chewonki:

• • All of our counselors and camp staff receive thorough and thoughtful training regarding ticks and the illnesses that they may carry.  

• • We have enhanced vigilance including daily  “tick checks” using the buddy system, mirrors, frequent showers after being out in brushy wooded areas, and encouraging the use of bug repellent.

• • Health Center staff are well trained in how to safely remove an embedded tick and follow a strict protocol to monitor anyone who may have been bitten.

• If our health staff have any concerns about a tick bite, follow up care may include a visit to a local clinic, and if recommended by a doctor, sending the tick to the University of Maine for identification.  Parents will be notified if their child has been bitten by a tick.

You Can Help:

• • Educate your camper on being “tick smart” while away from home to use caution in tick likely areas such as wearing long pants and tucking them into socks.

• • Send your camper with insect repellent clothing such as insectshield, llbean, or other clothing treated with permethrin.

• Send your camper with a bug repellant that contains deet.  This link from the EPA has some information to help you choose the right repellant for your family.  

Please do not hesitate to reach out to the Chewonki Health Center with any questions We look forward to a fun summer! The Health & Wellness Center Team healthcenter@chewonki.org 207-882-7323 ext 142