An army of ticks is sending more Marylanders to the ER

Summary: Ticks are out in full force this year, sending 25% more people across the country to the emergency room. Maryland is getting hit especially hard. Thanks to warmer weather and ticks using snow as protective "igloos" during the winter, their populations are booming.

The biggest threat is Lyme disease, which can cause extreme tiredness, fever, aches, and serious joint or heart problems if ignored. Cases in Maryland have almost tripled since 2020. Another growing threat is the lone star tick, which can spread alpha-gal syndrome—a condition that actually makes you allergic to red meat!

To stay safe this summer, use EPA-approved bug spray, wear light-colored clothes, tuck your pants into your socks, and always do a full-body tick check after spending time outdoors. Putting your clothes in the dryer on high heat for 10 minutes will also kill any hidden ticks.

For more details, see The Banner at thebanner.com/community/local-news/ticks-lyme-disease-emergency-maryland-66TANEPRGNCV5HQKT5VIUFCJYQ/ (opens in new tab)