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Lyme disease cases up 168% in last five years
It's that time of year: Residents and visitors are getting away from the grind and into Michigan's great outdoors! Whether your plans include the deep forest, sandy beaches, backyard barbecues or solo stargazing, don't let ticks spoil the fun.
It's a warning everyone should heed. State health officials recently shared that tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease, are on the rise. In fact, Lyme disease cases here have jumped 168% over the last five years
“Preventing tick bites is the best way to prevent tick-borne diseases,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. “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, or if you suspect a tick has been attached for more than 24 hours, consult with your medical provider.”
MDHHS also provided several tips to help protect yourself and loved ones from ticks. These include using insect repellent, performing daily tick checks, and bathing or showering as soon as possible after coming in from outdoors.
Not all ticks spread the same germs. MDHHS can help to identify ticks you may encounter. For identification, residents can email photos of ticks to MDHHS-Bugs@Michigan.gov or submit ticks by mail, free of charge.
Get more information at Michigan.gov/Lyme.