Watch for ticks as you head outdoors

While ticks can be a problem year-round, Spring and Summer is an especially vulnerable time to get bitten. It’s important to remember that tick bites can lead to certain illnesses. Nurse Kim Smith with the Laclede County Health Department said many of the symptoms are similar to the flu……

If left untreated, long-term symptoms of tick-borne disease can include recurring joint pain, heart disease, and nervous system disorders. According to the CDC, the number of reported cases of Lyme disease in the United States has tripled since the late 1990s. If you or family members are going to enjoy the outdoors, be sure to take steps to prevent getting ticks on you, and when back inside inspect yourself and your children thoroughly for ticks that may have attached to your skin or clothing.