Scientists say ticks are expanding their range in Maine after mild winter, wet weather

Maine's mild winter and recent rain have invigorated the state's tick population, according to scientists. Ticks have expanded their range to northern and Down East counties, and cases of the diseases they carry have also increased. Last year, the Maine CDC recorded more than 2,636 cases of Lyme disease and four cases of the rare but sometimes lethal Powassan virus, the highest numbers in a decade. To prevent tick bites, scientists and public health experts say it's important to wear EPA-approved repellent and stay on trails. Once inside, they recommend putting clothes in the dryer for 10 minutes before washing to kill ticks, and to perform a thorough tick check with eyes and fingers.