Mass. Residents Warned To Protect Against Ticks, Lyme Disease
BOSTON (CBS) -- The State Department of Public Health is advising the public on how to avoid Lyme disease at a time when it's been declared an epidemic in parts of the state.
Deer ticks are thriving in the warm weather, especially south of Boston, where the growing deer population has brought an increased risk of ticks that spread Lyme disease.
That's why the Department of Public Health is posting videos reminding people to use insect repellent and check for ticks.
"Just like you put on sunscreen, make it a habit to use an EPA-approved repellent anytime you are outdoors," the video says.
Early signs of Lyme disease are a rash followed by fever, chills and body aches, which can escalate to severe joint pain and neurological damage.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Carl Stevens reports:
