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Ticks Found In 7 Local Parks Test Positive For Lyme Disease

SANTA MONICA (CBSLA.com) — Ticks testing positive for Lyme disease have been found at seven Santa Monica-area parks, officials said.

The Lyme-positive ticks first appeared on Paramount Ranch's Coyote Trail on Jan. 18, according to the Los Angeles County West Vector Control District.

Since then, positive Western Black –Legged ticks have also been reported at Charmlee Park , Sullivan Canyon Park, and Malibu Creek, Tapia, Topanga and Will Rogers state parks.

On average, only about 1-2 percent of the adult Western Black-Legged ticks in California are infected with the bacterium that causes Lyme disease, officials said.

The insects can be commonly found in the grass along trails and tend to latch on to those enjoying the outdoors.

Officials recommend that people wear long pants and sleeves while in areas prone to the insects.

Most cases of Lyme disease occur between late spring and early fall with symptoms including an expanding red rash, joint pain, chills, fever and fatigue.

The disease can be treated with antibiotics for a full recovery.

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