May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month. This provides an opportunity to reflect on how Lyme disease and other tickborne diseases affect your community and other communities across the United States.

Lyme disease is spread by the blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis. The blacklegged tick was first established in Ohio in 2010. Since then, this tick's range has expanded in Ohio, and Lyme disease has dramatically increased and caused significant disease among Ohioans.

The best way to prevent Lyme disease is to prevent tick bites. If you find a tick on your body, remove it quickly to reduce the risk of contracting Lyme disease. See a healthcare provider if you do get sick. Lyme disease is curable. Early diagnosis and treatment are important in order to avoid further health problems related to Lyme disease.