Regular tick checks can help prevent several serious tick-borne diseases, including: - Lyme disease: Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne illness in the United States and Europe. - Anaplasmosis: Caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum, this disease can lead to symptoms like fever, headache, and muscle aches. - Babesiosis: Caused by Babesia parasites, babesiosis can cause symptoms ranging from mild flu-like symptoms to severe, life-threatening illness. - Rocky Mountain spotted fever: Caused by Rickettsia rickettsii, this disease can be fatal if not treated early.