Ticks Spreading Disease to New Areas

FAIRFAX, Va. (July 2, 2014) –  Blacklegged ticks, the primary vector of Lyme disease are spreading into more regions of the country and bringing the threat of disease.

A study in New York is tracking their spread in hopes of providing base research for future studies and determining how prevalent Lyme disease is in the tick population. Although deer and mice are the primary hosts for blacklegged ticks, they do feed on people.

People can pick up ticks when spending time outdoors, but wearing proper clothing and checking yourself when you come inside can help prevent disease.