A deer tick (Photo: DNR)
Cases of Lyme disease have been increasing dramatically in Wisconsin, and the early start to warm weather has increased the risk.
UW bug expert Phil Pellitteri says small deer ticks are already active in the state. The insects carry the disease, and they are spreading further across Wisconsin. Recent reports show cases of Lyme disease were up 35-percent last year.
AUDIO: Phil Pellitteri (:14)
Lyme disease can cause fever, rashes, and body aches. If untreated, it can result in long term neurological and physical damage that can be difficult to treat.
Pellitteri says if you’re outdoors, you need to take precautions such as wearing long pants, insect repellent, and checking yourself, kids, and pets when you head indoors. He says the ticks have already been quite active, due to recent record-setting temperatures.
John Colbert, WIBA