COLUMBUS (AP) — State officials warn that blacklegged “deer” ticks known to transmit lyme disease are becoming more prevalent in Ohio and precautions should be taken to prevent contact.

The Ohio Department of Health says the ticks once considered rare in Ohio likely are in 26 counties, mostly east of Interstate 71 in forests. The ticks can transmit Lyme disease to humans and pets.

Officials warn hunters and others spending time outdoors to spray outer clothing with a repellent and tuck pants into socks or boots and shirts into pants to keep ticks outside of clothing.

They should inspect for crawling ticks before entering vehicles or buildings, and for attached ticks once indoors.

Ticks should be removed as soon as possible with tweezers or fingers protected by rubber gloves.