State health officials are urging Mainers to take precautions as tickborne diseases surge in the state.
The Maine Center For Disease Control and Prevention says, as warm weather continues and Mainers enjoy outdoor activities, the state has received a record number of tickborne disease reports.
While mention of ticks often brings Lyme disease to mind, state epidemiologist Dr Siri Bennett says deer ticks can also carry other diseases such as anaplamosis and babesiosis, which are also on the rise.
“What we really want to stress is that the best way to not get any of these diseases is don’t get bitten by a tick,” she says. “Use the ‘No Ticks 4 ME’ approach: Use caution in tick-infested areas, stay on paths and avoid brush and grasses. Wear protective clothing — long sleeves, long trousers. Use insect repellent — the EPA-approved repellent goes on the skin, as well as a kind you can put on your clothing.”
And Bennett says people should also do daily tick checks both on themselves and any pets that may have been out.
Anyone having summer flu symptoms should see their primary care provider to determine whether they might be caused by a tickborne illness.
