Public health officials in northwest Michigan are asking residents to be on the lookout for ticks as cases of Lyme disease continue their upward trend.
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that passes through the bite of the black-legged tick.
The disease causes a range of symptoms such as fevers, headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, cardiac issues, or a bullseye-shaped rash (the disease's most noticeable trait).
"We've seen, over the years, areas where the black-legged tick used to really not see except in small little corners of the state," said Joshua Meyerson, medical director of the Health Department of Northwest Michigan. "But the black-legged tick has now spread throughout most of the state of Michigan and is found in most counties here in northern Michigan."
According to Meyerson, cases have already made a significant jump from 19 back in 2019 to 91 cases in 2023. He also expects a spike in cases at the beginning of May.
However, Meyerson said just getting a tick bite does not mean you've contracted the disease.
"I think it's important to know that the tick really needs to be attached to you for at least 24 hours, more like 36 hours before the Lyme disease can be transmitted," Meyerson said.
The best way to avoid getting bitten by ticks or outright avoiding the disease, according to Meyerson and the CDC, are:
- Wear buy-spray specifically aimed towards ticks.
- Checking yourself and your animals before entering your home.
- Stay on trails while hiking.
- Wear protective clothing (Long-sleeves or pants).
- Keep your lawn mowed.
- Carefully remove the tick in the 24–36-hour mark.
Lyme Disease is a treatable illness through anti-biotics.
