Syracuse, N.Y. -- Warm weather brings out deer ticks, and with them comes an increased concern about Lyme disease in New York state.

In the video above, titled "Don't Freak Out About Ticks," the state Health Department shows the best way to remove ticks after they embed in your skin. (This video is not for the squeamish, but it's important stuff.)

The health department recommends using fine-tooth tweezers rather than the various tick removal products that rely on twisting off the tick. You can find more information about to prevent Lyme disease at the health department website.)

The deer tick can carry the bacterium that causes Lyme disease, a disease that can be debilitating if not caught and treated early enough. Lyme cases are on the rise in New York as the disease marches steadily from its origin in Connecticut in the 1970s.

Nearly half of all ticks in Central New York carry the bacterium, according to one estimate. Fear of Lyme disease grew so strong in Fayetteville that sharpshooters killed 89 deer there this year.

Many experts say that ticks need to be on the body for 24 to 36 hours before they transmit the bacterium, so it's important to check your body every day and remove ticks promptly. At least one study, however, says that although the risk increases the longer a tick is attached, a "minimum tick attachment time for transmission of (the bacterium) in humans has never been established."

Adult ticks, which are active now, are about the size of a sesame seed. The nymphs, which emerge in late spring and summer, are the size of a poppy seed. About 80 percent of Lyme disease cases come from nymphs, largely because they are difficult to see on the body.

The health department has compiled a seven-step procedure to remove ticks. (You can also print out a copy of the card to put in your pocket.)

1. Use a pair of pointed tweezers.

2. Grasp the tick by the head or mouth, right where it enters the skin.

3. Pull firmly and steadily upward.

4. Place the tick in a small container of rubbing alcohol to kill it.

5. Clean the bite wound with rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.

6. Monitor the site of the bite for the next 30 days for the appearance of a rash.

7. If you develop a rash or flu-like symptoms, contact your health provider immediately.

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