It is the time when tick population starts to increase. Symbolized by green ribbons, May is observed as Lyme Disease Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. These ribbons signify the nation's fastest growing problem from ticks.

In the past five years, Pennsylvania has witnessed the maximum cases of Lyme disease in comparison with other states. The tick-borne illness is serious, which starts from the rash and the flu-like symptoms.

Owing to its symptoms, the disease can be misdiagnosed from multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia to chronic fatigue and anxiety. It is important to diagnose the illness on time as otherwise it can cause chronic problem.

With years, government and citizen groups have been taking steps to control the spread of tick populations. In 2014, the state established Lyme Disease Task Force. In August, the Task Force is expected to submit a review of its findings to the state secretary.

A number of methods have been tried to control the population of ticks. US Senator Robert Casey has asked the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta to come up with more ways to tackle the problem.

Personally, people can use simple tricks to avoid getting bitten by ticks like if you are travelling to place having increased presence of ticks then try to cover up as much as possible. People can even wear repellants. Application of 0.5% of permethrin products to clothing and gear has also been suggested as it will last many washings.

Once you return home, it is suggested to take bath within two hours of returning indoors. It has also been suggested to check whole body for ticks. It is always better to wear light-colored clothes as then it becomes easy to spot ticks during outdoor activities like hiking and camping.