They're small, blood sucking parasites that live on humans and animals. And public health officials say there is a national trend of an increasing number of ticks.
While they're mainly a nuisance, they can carry diseases.
"In our area there are 6 types of tick borne illnesses in Georgia. The ones that we primarily see in Southwest Georgia are Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever," said Jacqueline Jenkins, the Southwest Public Health District Epidemiologist.
The CDC hasn't reported a spike in tick-borne diseases, but health officials in Southwest Georgia say they've already reached their average number cases for the year.
"We see about two confirmed cases of those each year. So far this year, we have had two cases of Lyme Disease, so it is something that we're concerned with in getting the message about prevention from being exposed to ticks. And that's the primary that you can do is to limit your exposure," said Jenkins.
And scientists say they're seeing a new species of tick in the south. The particular tick is only known to bite animals. Which is why protecting your four-legged friend is just as important as protecting yourself.
"If you know they are in highly infected areas I would check them everyday. They can get in between their toes and in between folds. Usually they like the head, around the ears, things like that. Just rub them and you should feel them," said Trey Newell, a veterinarian in Albany.
Veterinarians suggest using a tick control medication for your animals. And health officials say the best prevention method for humans is to avoid exposure all together.
For more information about ticks and prevention tips click on the link below:
http://www.cdc.gov/ticks/
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