Doctors and veterinarians are warning South Carolina residents to protect themselves and their pets from ticks.
About 50 cases of tick-borne diseases have been reported in pets around Greenville County this year. Vets say they've seen an increase in the insects over the past few months.
Doctors say a tick must be imbedded into the skin for at least a full day before Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain Fever can be transferred. They recommend covering up when you go outside and checking yourself for ticks.
Veterinarians recommend getting a tick medication for animals because heartworm prevention doesn't stave off the little bloodsuckers.