The state of Maine is reporting a record number of tick-borne disease cases in 2024 for a second year in a row.

CBS 13 reports that more than 3,200 cases of tick-carried Lyme disease were reported between January and December, which is an increase of 275 over the year before.

The increase is being linked to warmer and wetter winters in Maine, which is allowing the ticks to stay more active and reproduce longer. Data also shows more cases appearing farther up north, a sign that the insects are expanding their habitat due to climate change.

Untreated bites from ticks carrying Lyme disease can cause long-term problems including arthritis, nerve pain, fatigue, heart palpitations and severe headaches.

If you’re bitten by a tick, you can send the insect to be tested by the University of Maine for $20.

To read the original CBS 13 article, click here.