Ticks are out in full force this time of year, and Dr. Shayla Hesse, Sanford Health’s doctor of infectious diseases, says there are a number of diseases the arachnids can spread to humans and pets.
Anaplasmosis is on the rise, outpacing Lymes disease compared to years past.
Dr. Hesse says anaplasmosis is a bacteria transmitted by tick bites, generally by the same type of ticks that transmit Lymes disease.
There are a number of preventative measures one can take to avoid tick-borne illnesses, such as staying clear of heavy brush, walking along cleared trails and wearing insect repellant.
Ticks can transmit to people from pets as well, so it is also important that animals also have tick preventative medication.
Listen to the full interview with Dr. Hesse below:
