Lyme disease is on the rise. The symptoms vary and often, there is a bulls eye rash but not always.

It's growing in epidemic proportions, the number of people suffering with Lyme disease. What was once thought only a concern in the summer months is now a concern all year long.

"Now we are seeing kids getting bit by ticks in February and November and December. These ticks are still active they are still out there," said Dr. Manny Cirenza.

Deer ticks carry Lyme disease. They are tiny and because they don't jump, it takes a swipe against a tree branch, flower or high grass to gain contact. If you find one on you, it's best to see a doctor to have it removed and tested. Signs you've been bitten by an infected tick include a bulls eye rash is often but not always found near the bite. Other flu like symptoms can begin a week later.

"Chronic fever, fatigue, malaise. You can see headaches, bone and joint pain and even some usually things like meningitis that can occur Bells palsy where part of their face can be effected and have a droopy face," said Cirenza.

If a blood test for Lyme is positive, a few weeks of antibiotics is necessary.

When a tick starts out, it's the size of a pinhead. It's no wonder you don't always find them. If you have children who are outside playing, it's important to do a body check daily.

If there are woods nearby, kids should wear long sleeves and pants tucked into the socks. Using a tick spray that contains deet is effective but never on kids younger than three and should only used on clothing, never on anyone's skin. You can treat lawns with pesticides but then you run the risk of exposing your kids.

And what about Fido? You can use a tick deterrent like Frontline but the doctor says not to worry.

"Some parents are worried that that ticks are going to jump from the pets and to the children, but that's exceedingly rare. Once that tick is on another good meal it's not interested in jumping off," said Cirenza.