Increase in Lyme disease this summer, doctors say

MURRYSVILLE, Pa. — There has been increase in the number of tick cases and suspected Lyme disease this summer, according to doctors.

Western PA has great parks to walk, bike and play in, but wooded areas can certainly have ticks.

We talked to people who are aware of the problem and are protecting themselves.

Megan Kelly's grandkids came prepared to hit the trails in Duff Park in Murrysville.

She kept an eye out for any bites or critters that land on them.

“If I thought they were bit by a tick I would definitely have them looked at,” Kelly said.

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According to MedExpress, 20 percent more people have come in for tick bites and suspected Lyme disease this summer compared to 2016.

“There was an abundant amount of acorns a couple years ago, which lead to more mice, which lead to more deer ticks, that in conjunction with milder, warmer winter,” said Sarah Ferrese, a physician’s assistant at MedExpress.

Kelly knows firsthand what a tick bite feels like.

“Another one was already embedded in my neck,” she said. “I watched it for a few days and it left a little red circle and I was kind of nervous”

She told us her dog picked one up, too.

The Allegheny County Health Department told channel 11 that 4 percent more people have tested positive for Lyme disease this year comapared to 2016.

We asked Ferris to describe the symptoms for Lyme disease.

“Weird rashes, particularly the bullseye rash. Also fever, body aches, it's unusual to have fever in summertime and spring,” she said.

Kelly’s didn't turn into Lyme disease, but she's careful while hiking, puts on spray and stays away from heavy brush.

“Hopefully it's a cycle and things will subside after a while, but in the meantime, I think everyone needs to be very careful,” she said.

There is also a sign posted on a tree at Duff Park, reminding you to check yourself and your animals for ticks.

Cox Media Group