As if we didn't have enough to worry about with the Coronavirus; now, we need to worry about a hint of Lyme. May is when we start to not only see ticks on yards and gardens but also when we hear about deer tick diseases such as Lyme Disease - a disease that can affect both people and pets. Here is what you need to know this Lyme Disease Awareness Month:

There are over 850 tick species in the world; but 90 types of ticks are found in the United States. While not all ticks carry diseases, Lyme Disease is the most recognizable tick disease that affects over 300,000 Americans each year commonly discovered on deer ticks. Deer are the most common carriers of ticks in North America - the ones to blame for the spread of ticks with diseases. (Although, the Lyme bacterium is actually found on the white-footed mouse.)

It is important to perform a thorough tick check before coming inside the house from the garden. Ticks are mostly found on the body around the ankles or arms. Wear bright colors to easily spot ticks and know how to safely remove a tick, if needed. For pets, ticks can be found buried underneath fur along the ankles, collar and tail. 

For tick disease prevention, it is recommended to install a deer fence around lawns and gardens to reduce the sight of deer that may drop deer ticks on the yard. A 7.5 to 8' feet high deer fence system is best.