Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases are on the rise around the state, so it’s time to get serious about preventing tick bites.
Dr. Mary Grace Stobierski of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said, “Preventing tick bites is the best way to prevent tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease and anaplasmosis. If you find a tick attached to your body, promptly remove it. Monitor your health, and if you experience fever, rash, muscle or joint aches or other symptoms, consult with your medical provider.”
St. Clair County is one of the Michigan counties identified as having a high risk for Lyme disease. It is home to the blacklegged tick, which transmits both Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, the second most common tick-borne disease.
Avoiding ticks means being careful when outdoors. Walk in the center of trails to avoid grassy, brushy, wooded areas where ticks thrive. Also, use a repellant with DEET or Picardin.
Pets should be checked for ticks often. There are tick-prevention products available for pets.
Bathing after being outdoors is a good way to find and wash off ticks, as is washing clothes in hot water and drying on high heat.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
