OAKES, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Summer is in full swing, which means ticks are out in force.

The North Dakota Department of Health (NDDoH) reports that ticks can spread diseases when they are infected with certain types of bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Transmission to humans occurs through the bite of an infected tick.

“People who spend time outdoors in tick-infested environments are at an increased risk of becoming infected,” the department states. “Ticks are most active in warmer months (April-September), though tickborne diseases have been reported during every month of the year.”

Dr.Tara Mertz-Hack works with the Sanford Health Oakes Clinic.

Mertz-Hack says the Lone Star Tick has also started to become more prevalent with carrying diseases, with one case she notes occurring in Stutsman County.

Mertz-Hack says it could be difficult to distinguish what type of tick it is, but the Lone Star can be identified by the white circle on its back. She says they’re looking for individuals to notify them if they see them.

You’re encouraged to take steps to prevent ticks by wearing long pants, using bug repellents, and inspecting yourself for ticks when you get back inside.

You can listen to a full interview with Dr. Mertz-Hack from the Midweek Focus below: