Health department promotes awareness of tick-borne illnesses and blastomycosis

The Lincoln County Health Department (LCHD) is raising awareness about tick-borne diseases and blastomycosis, two public health concerns affecting residents and visitors in the area.
To support public education efforts, LCHD recently installed metal informational signs along several county trails, including New Wood Park, Tug Lake, Prairie Dells, Underdown Recreation Area, and the River Bend Trail, among others.
Tick-borne diseases—such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis—are spread primarily by the black-legged tick and are most common from May through November. In 2023, Lincoln County reported 104 cases.
Blastomycosis, a rare but serious fungal infection that affects the lungs, continues to impact an average of six individuals per year in Lincoln County. The county ranks among the top five in Wisconsin for the highest incidence of the illness.
Symptoms can mimic other respiratory illnesses like the flu or acute bacterial pneumonia, making it difficult to diagnose. If you are having symptoms and think you may have blastomycosis, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider right away. People are typically treated with antifungal medicine. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can minimize the severity of illness.
LCHD is also offering educational presentations and booths for local groups and organizations. To request a presentation, contact Public Health Educator Lexi Buntrock at 715.539.1374 or lexi.buntrock@co.lincoln.wi.us.
For more information, visit co.lincoln.wi.us/health/page/disease-control-prevention.