Tick-borne Lyme disease season begins in Minnesota, USA

In 2013, a record 1,431 cases of Lyme disease were recorded in Minnesota. The tick that transmits this disease is active from mid_may through July. Travellers who plan outdoor activities such as camping and hiking in wooded areas should use insect repellent to reduce the risk of disease. DEET-based repellents (up to 30 percent DEET) can be applied to clothing or skin. Pre-treating fabric with permethrin-based repellents can protect against tick bites for at least two weeks. Checking for and removing ticks from the skin daily will also help prevent Lyme disease as well as other tick-borne diseases.