LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — It is tick season in Michigan, that means it is necessary to pay attention to the dangers related to Lyme illness. With circumstances rising over the past 5 years, the Division of Well being and Human Companies needs you to know what to keep away from.
In 2020, there have been 452 Lyme illness circumstances in Michigan. Final 12 months, there have been practically 3 occasions as many, however what are you able to do to remain secure? 6 Information spoke to consultants to search out out.
Rachel Burkholder, an MDDHS epidemiologist, mentioned the rise in circumstances will be defined by a number of issues.
“A lot of variables go into increasing Lyme disease cases. Some of the variables that could go into it are, ticks are surviving the winters better, the behaviors of humans, just going out more, going into heavily forested areas where the ticks are going to be,” mentioned Burkholder.
There are 5 most important forms of ticks in Michigan, however solely certainly one of them carries the illness. Based on the state, 2023 knowledge reveals black legged ticks, or deer ticks, account for 20% of all ticks in Michigan. These are the ticks which will carry Lyme illness.
Burkholder warns there are some areas to keep away from should you do not wish to encounter Lyme disease-bearing ticks, reminiscent of shady, misty areas, the woods, and tall grass. He recommends tucking your pants into your socks and your shirts into your pants—and utilizing EPA-approved insect repellants.
She additionally says to verify to examine your self and your pets for ticks if you go inside.
Specialists say ticks normally must be connected for no less than 36 hours for the Lyme illness micro organism to enter your physique. If that does occur, signs might not present up for some time.
“I suggest if you’ve been bitten by a tick, to watch for signs and symptoms for up to 30 days,” mentioned Burkholder. “They’re going to be the classic bullseye rash that everybody hears about, fatigue, fever, headache.”
Different signs can embrace a crimson oval-shaped rash, muscle aches, or flu-like signs. If left untreated, it may well trigger modifications in coronary heart rhythm or arthritis.
For extra info and assets, comply with this hyperlink to the MDDHS website.
