Tick bites are becoming more common in the United States and the United Kingdom, health officials say. In the US, emergency room visits for tick bites have been unusually high this year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About 31 million Americans are bitten by ticks each year, and that number has been rising for over a decade. In the UK, experts report that ticks are increasing in number and variety, posing a growing health risk. Ticks are small, blood-sucking parasites that can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and other illnesses to humans. Lyme disease can cause fever, headache, fatigue, and a distinctive skin rash. If not treated early, it can lead to more serious health problems. To protect yourself from tick bites, experts recommend several simple steps. When walking in grassy or wooded areas, wear long sleeves and pants, and tuck your pants into your socks. Use insect repellent that contains DEET or other approved ingredients. After spending time outdoors, check your body and clothing for ticks. Pay close attention to areas like the scalp, behind the ears, and under the arms. If you find a tick, remove it carefully with tweezers, grasping it close to the skin and pulling straight out. Clean the area with soap and water. Tick season typically runs from spring to fall. Taking these precautions can help reduce your risk of bites and the diseases they may carry.