By Jason Zimmerman

The deer tick problem is spreading, and health officials fear it could lead to more cases of Lyme disease. Last year the state set a record with 1,441 cases, up from 1,176 cases in 2004. So far in 2006, Wisconsin has 39 confirmed cases.

It's reason enough for campers to cover up, with the Memorial Day weekend just days away. At Jellystone Park near Fremont, there's plenty of insect repellent to go around.

"This is a repellent which is liquid in form, and I put a little bit on and smear it on, and it has a percentage of DEET which keeps the bugs away," camper Buck Hilbert demonstrates.

Repellent with DEET is the best way to avoid ticks at a time when Lyme disease is on the rise.

The Wisconsin health department put out a warning touting that most people are exposed between the months of May and August, when the ticks are most active.

Historically, the ticks that transmit Lyme disease have been found in the western part of Wisconsin, but lately many have started migrating east. Recent mild winters are blamed for the thriving population.

"I've seen one tick on my pants, and that's all," camper Frank Herdzina says.

Anyone who has a tick bite will notice a "bull's eye" rash after removing the insect as a clear sign of Lyme disease. That's followed by flu-like symptoms and joint pain.

"It's nice we are worried about it, but I guess we can only take preventive measures," says Hilbert.