Health officials talk ticks

Lyme disease is transmitted through specific species of ticks in Idaho.

There haven’t been too many cases in Idaho in recent years, but some still have popped up in our area. Transmission takes 24 to 48 hours on average after the attaches to you.

An easy-to-spot symptom is a bulls’-eye rash, which shows up anywhere from three to 30 days after a bite. If left untreated, it can lead to bigger complications like rheumatoid arthritis, joint pains and fatigue.

“Key is getting them found before they have a chance to attach themselves, or get them off as soon as they do attach,” said Jeff Doerr, epidemiologist for Southeastern Idaho Public Health.

Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics. It’s recommended to wear long clothing in sagebrush, pasture or range lands. You should always conduct a tick check after visiting these areas.