By Nicole Walton
Marquette County, MI – The number of Black-Legged Ticks is on the rise in Marquette County.
That's according to Health Department officials, who are concerned that could mean more instances of Lyme disease.
Formerly known as Deer Ticks, the insects carry the disease, which causes flu-like symptoms and a bull's eye rash. If untreated it can progress to swell the large joints of the body and lead to problems with the heart and nervous system.
The Health Department is advising residents to take precautions against ticks when outside. Protection guidelines can be found at ww.mqthealth.org.
Ticks that are found attached to a person can be submitted for Lyme disease testing. Call 906-475-4195 for more information.