BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP) - Vermont health officials say the number of Lyme disease cases from exposure to ticks is on the rise.
More than 600 cases were reported in Vermont last year. The Health Department says a growing population of infected ticks and more testing may account for the record high number.
The disease can be successfully treated with antibiotics if caught early. But if it's not treated, it can affect the heart and nervous system.
Some measures people can take to prevent tick exposure is to wear long pants, long sleeves and long socks, avoid wooded brushy areas with high grass and a lot of leaf litter and to checks themselves, children and pets daily for ticks. Insect repellents with up to 30 percent DEET also are effective.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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