Tuscarawas County Lyme disease cases climb again
DOVER (WJER) (July 23, 2025) – Another rise in Lyme disease cases has the Tuscarawas County Health Department telling us to take precautions against tick bites and seek treatment options early if experiencing any symptoms.
Spokesperson Jennifer Demuth says there were 126 suspected cases among Tuscarawas County residents in January though June of this year, compared to 89 during the first half of last year. That follows the 128 percent jump in local cases between 2020 and 2024.
She says it takes about 36 to 48 hours for a tick to transmit Lyme disease bacteria. Initial signs of Lyme disease can include a bullseye rash, a headache, joint and muscle aches, and fatigue.
Physicians say the tick populations and Lyme disease cases are increasing due to climate change, changes in land use, and increased awareness and reporting of the illness.