With warmer weather on the horizon, the Maynard Health Division would like to remind Maynard residents to be on the lookout for ticks.

Although ticks are present year-round, their activity increases during the warmer months. The most common ticks found in Massachusetts are the black-legged (deer) tick, American dog tick and the lone star tick.

The most common tick-borne illnesses in Massachusetts are Lyme disease, babesiosis and anaplasmosis (human granulocytic anaplasmosis or HGA).

Be aware of the symptoms of anaplasmosis or babesiosis, which may include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Headache
• Achy joints and muscles
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Dark urine

Symptoms of Lyme disease may include:

• A rash where the tick was attached, often starting as a small red area that spreads outward with a clearing in the center (also known as a “bull’s-eye” rash)
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever, stiff neck, headache, sore and aching muscles and joints, and swollen glands

Here are some ways to protect yourself from tick-borne illnesses:

• Use DEET
  • Note: Do not use DEET products on infants, and use concentrations of 30% or less on children.
• Wear long, light-colored pants with pants tucked into socks or boots and a long-sleeved shirt.
• Stay on cleared trails when walking or hiking.
• Check yourself and your pets before coming inside from being outdoors.
• Consult your veterinarian about tick control options for pets such as tick collars and repellents.

The Public Health Department has free tick removal kits available as part of a regional grant; they can be picked up at the Office of Municipal Services at Town Hall (entrance in the back).