The North Shore Health Department investigates several tick-borne infections including Lyme disease, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and rocky mountain spotted fever. Lyme disease is the most frequently reported tickborne illness in Wisconsin, but numbers for the other conditions are increasing. Common symptoms of tick-borne diseases may include fever, chills, muscle aches, headache and rash. Preventing tick bites is the key to reducing your risk of tick-borne diseases.
- Avoid areas with tall grass and brush where ticks are common.
- Apply repellents that contain at least 20%–30% DEET.
- Wear clothing treated with 0.5% permethrin.
- Shower soon after coming indoors.
- Perform daily checks. Check your entire body after being outside even if you were only in your yard.
It is important to remember that ticks are present in all counties in Wisconsin. People living in any county in Wisconsin can contract Lyme disease or other tick-borne diseases.