Rural Health Matters: Tick-Borne Illnesses on the Rise

Dr. Jeffrey Gold addressed growing concerns surrounding Lyme disease and other illnesses carried by ticks.

OMAHA, Neb. (RFD NEWS) — As more people spend time outdoors during the warmer months, health experts are encouraging families to take precautions against ticks and tick-borne illnesses.

Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, joined us Wednesday’s Rural Health Matters to discuss Lyme disease, Alpha-gal syndrome and other health concerns associated with tick bites.

In his conversation with RFD News, Gold addressed whether doctors are seeing an increase in tick-borne diseases and why awareness remains important during the summer months.

The discussion also covered what people should watch for after a tick bite, whether ticks should be saved for identification purposes and when medical attention may be needed.

Gold additionally shared tips for protecting pets from ticks and why regular tick checks remain one of the best prevention tools.

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Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


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