Tick season has just started, but some Long Island doctors are saying they're seeing more people come in with tick bites and tick-related infections than in previous years.

They warn that ticks can be found anywhere, not just in wooded areas or low brush.

Doctors advise removing the ticks immediately after they are discovered, followed by close self-monitoring for symptoms. People can also visit their personal care physician if concerned.

In addition to routine tick checks, doctors say people can protect themselves by wearing long sleeve shirts and pants when outdoors and tuck socks into the bottom of pants. It's also important to use repellent on clothes, skin and especially shoes. Once going inside, put clothes in the dryer before the washing machine to kill any ticks, and take a shower.

Also keep a close eye on pets this time of year, as they can not only be bitten by ticks, but can carry them indoors.

Stony Brook Regional Tick-Borne Disease Resource Center is located in Hampton Bays.