Increased tick presence reported in Columbiana County

Staff report

LISBON

The Columbiana County Health Department reports an increasing presence of ticks in the area and warns residents to take precaution as these species can carry disease.

The American dog tick is the most-common variety found in the county, although black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks, have become increasingly common and are the most dangerous to humans and animals.

The American dog tick can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Black-legged or deer ticks are carriers of Lyme disease. The state health department recorded 67 cases of Lyme disease last year, up from 50 in 2011 and 43 in 2010.

The county health department recommends avoiding tick-infested areas such as tall grass and dense woodlands. Tuck pants into socks or boots, wear light-colored clothing to make it easier to detect crawling ticks, and use repellents. They also urge residents to check themselves, their children and pets frequently for ticks. Bathe or shower within two hours of exposure to tick habitats.

If a tick is attached, remove it as soon as possible to reduce risk of infection. To removeticks, shield fingers with a paper towel or use tweezers. Grasp the tick close to the skin. With steady pressure, pull the tick straight up and out, health department officials advise.

Avoid crushing the tick. Do not use a hot match, cigarette, nail polish, petroleum jelly, or other products to remove it.

For information, call the health department at 330-424-0272 or go to the office, 7360 state Route 45, Lisbon, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.