Tick season is here and the Macon County Health Department is advising residents to take precautions. Carol Carlton, Director of Clinical Services at the Macon County Health Department says that ticks can carry Lyme disease and other illnesses so it is important to do your best to avoid them as much as you can...



Carlton also says that the number of ticks is higher than the average year because of the mild winter and unusually warm spring.  You can find tips to avoid ticks this year at wsoyam.com.
 
Consult a doctor if you experience a rash or illness accompanied by a fever after a tick bite. Treatment with appropriate antibiotics shouldn't be delayed.
The best way to enjoy the outdoors and avoid ticks is to stay out of shin-high grass and weeds. Walk in the center of trails so weeds don't brush against you. Check often for ticks climbing toward open skin. Wear white or light-colored long-sleeved shirts and long pants so the tiny ticks are easier to see. Use repellents containing DEET or permethrin (per-METH'-rin) to treat clothes.

Check pets for ticks if you let them outdoors.