SMMC Encourages Public to Keep an Eye Out for Ticks

09/12/2012

Free Tick ID Card Available Through SMMC Website

Tick-borne diseases are on the rise in Maine and Southern Maine Medical Center (SMMC) is encouraging the community to carefully examine themselves, children and pets for ticks upon returning from the woods or high grass areas. 

Infections caused by tick bites, like Lyme disease as well as anaplasma and the less-common babesiosis, can cause serious side effects. If you have been bitten by a tick, or if you are suffering from severe flu-like symptoms such as body aches, fever and headache which can be caused by a tick bite, contact your physician immediately.  Early treatment is important.

Visit smmc.org/ticksafety for additional safety precautions and to order your FREE tick identification guide from SMMC.

About Southern Maine Medical Center
Southern Maine Medical Center (SMMC) is a national award-winning healthcare system including a medical center offering excellent clinical care and a multi-specialty physician services group. SMMC features one of Maine's leading Emergency Care centers as well as a full range of inpatient and outpatient services at its 150-bed acute care medical center. Non-emergency care is available without an appointment seven days a week at SMMC’s Walk-In Care center in Saco. SMMC's physician services offer high quality medical care through offices located in Biddeford, Kennebunk, Old Orchard Beach, and Saco and a wide array of outpatient services at its diagnostic and therapy centers in Saco, Kennebunk, and Biddeford. SMMC is Joint Commission accredited, state-licensed, and is a member of the MaineHealth system. To learn more visit www.smmc.org.

Media Contact:
Leslie Roberts
(207) 283-7232
lbroberts@smmc.org