Warning About Ticks and Lyme Disease in Bay Area

The threat of ticks and Lyme Disease has grown in the Bay Area with the spring weather we're experiencing, according to the California Department of Health.

Health officials are most concerned with the tiny Western Black tick nymph, said health department spokeswoman Ann Kjemtrup.

The nymph is about the size of a sesame seed and is found in the wooded areas in Alameda, Santa Clara and Sonoma counties.

"Where people might encounter them is sitting on logs, for example, carrying firewood," said Kjemtrup. "And when you sit on them or pick up firewood, these little guys can then attach to you."

These ticks carry bacteria responsible for Lyme disease which is a treatable disease characterized by flu-like symptoms and fatigue.

Kjemtrup advised that people headed into wooded areas protect themselves by wearing long sleeve shirts and longs pants and by using insect repellent containing DEET.

What happens if you do end up with a tick bite?

"Get a small pair of tweezers and go right down to the mouth part where the tick is attached to the skin, almost grabbing a little piece of your skin at the same time," said Kjemtrup. "Pull gently and firmly straight out."

Watch the bite area for at least three days. If you develop a rash in the bite area, see a doctor.