One of the unexpected inconveniences of living in Boston is dealing with seasonal allergies and bug issues.

Behind the beautiful fall foliage and spring flowers lies a pollen bomb, and with nature nearby, there are various bugs as well. Knowing about these in advance can help you prepare, so let's break it down.

Massachusetts, including Boston, is known to be a habitat for deer ticks (Blacklegged Ticks) that carry Lyme disease. The state has one of the highest rates of Lyme disease in the U.S. Especially when hiking in parks, arboretums, or suburban woods from spring to fall, it's essential to wear long pants and tuck your socks into them, and to use tick repellent spray (containing DEET). It's also important to develop a habit of checking your entire body after outdoor activities. Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics if caught early, but if it's delayed, it can become chronic.

Pollen allergies are particularly severe in spring. Pollen from hardwood trees like birch, oak, and elm is concentrated from April to May. Those with allergies should prepare antihistamines during this time and keep windows closed on days with high pollen counts. In summer, grass pollen becomes an issue, and in fall, ragweed pollen is problematic. Boston has distinct four seasons, making allergy seasons clearly defined.

Mosquitoes are a nuisance in the evenings during summer, especially in parks or by the rivers. West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) are reported intermittently in Massachusetts. The state health department monitors mosquitoes and issues alerts when necessary, so it's best to avoid outdoor activities after sunset when alerts are issued. Pet owners should also ensure their pets are on heartworm prevention medication, as mosquitoes can transmit it.

Stinging insects, such as wasps and bees, should be approached with caution in summer. Yellow Jackets, in particular, are aggressive and require attention near food or trash cans. Those with severe allergic reactions should always carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) for safety. You can check the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) website for seasonal health alerts.