An East Galway GP is urging people to be on their guard for ticks this summer.
Doctor Evelyn Francis Parsons is warning people of the dangers of Lyme disease-a bacterial infection carried by the parasites.
The Ballinasloe Councillor says people should wear long sleeves while out walking in some grassy areas.
She's also advising people to look out for a red circular rash, which can appear in the first four weeks following a tick bite.
Most cases of the disease are very mild, but Dr. Parsons says severe cases can have prolonged symptoms.