Maine saw a record 2,079 Lyme disease cases in the state last year. The Maine Center for Disease Control (CDC) says that number could continue to climb as more reports come in.
The Executive Director of the Maine Center for Disease Control, Dr. Nirav Shah says it is too soon to speculate on the increase. Two other tick-borne diseases also saw record highs, with close to 700 cases of anaplasmosis, and more than 130 cases of babesiosis.
Shah says it's a reminder of the importance of preventing bites from ticks, which can be active any time the temperature is above 40 degrees. The CDC advises wearing protective clothing, using repellant and performing daily tick checks.
