PCR DNA Testing Services

Huntington Beach, California, April 30, 2026

As National Lyme Disease Awareness Month begins in May, health officials are reminding Californians that this also marks the typical start of tick season, bringing an increased risk of exposure to Lyme disease.

According to the California Department of Public Health, Lyme disease remains the most commonly reported tick-borne illness in the state. It is primarily transmitted through bites from western blacklegged ticks, which are widely found along coastal regions and in the Sierra foothills.

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. Early symptoms often include fever, fatigue, headache, and a distinctive expanding rash known as erythema migrans. Without timely treatment, the infection can spread and affect the joints, heart, and nervous system.

Public health data from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health indicates that western blacklegged ticks capable of carrying Lyme disease have been detected in nearly all counties across California, underscoring the importance of prevention and awareness.

“Awareness and early detection are key to reducing Lyme disease risk,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager of LA Testing’s Huntington Beach facility. “Testing ticks quickly can provide valuable information and peace of mind for people who may have been exposed.”

To help individuals better understand potential exposure risks, LA Testing offers laboratory analysis of ticks using highly accurate PCR-based DNA testing. This service allows ticks removed from people and pets to be examined for the presence of Lyme-causing bacteria. The company also provides convenient mail-in tick collection kits designed for easy sampling and submission.

Health experts encourage residents and outdoor enthusiasts to take preventive measures during tick season, including wearing protective clothing, using repellents, and performing routine tick checks after spending time outdoors.

To learn more about tick testing for Borrelia burgdorferi, visit www.LATesting.com or www.TickTestingLab.com, email info@LATesting.com, or call (800) 755-1794. For access to test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.

 

LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for environmental, indoor air quality and material testing for mercury, asbestos, mold, bacteria, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates, and other chemicals. In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, CDC Elite, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health, and other states. LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Huntington Beach, San Leandro, and San Diego.