RISKS & PREVENTION Lyme disease is a bacterial disease spread by deer ticks. These blood-sucking insects carry the bacteria that causes the infection and they can pass it to animals and people on whom they are feeding.

Blacklegged ticks are known as one of the disease transmitting organisms for Lyme disease.

As beautiful spring weather finally returns, so does the likelihood of encountering deer ticks.

The state Public Health Department is warning residents to avoid mosquito and tick bites by using insect repellants and wearing long-sleeved, light colored shirts and long pants when participating in outdoor activities.