Forest and countryside users in East Anglia have been warned to be on their guard against a tiny mite that can transmit a debilitating disease.

Public health officials have issued a fresh warning ahead of the summer season about the dangers of tick bites.

Popular holiday destinations such as Thetford Forest have been cited by Public Health England as places where tick exposure is more likely, which can carry Lyme disease.

Officials from the government organisation have released a new leaflet to raise awareness of tick-borne illnesses and to urge walkers and cyclists and other forest visitors to be on their guard.

There were almost 1,000 recorded cases of Lyme disease across England and Wales last year and the spider-like creatures, which are found in woodlands, parks and gardens, are most prevalent in late spring, summer and autumn. The number of cases in the East of England has gone up from 26 in 2009 to 58 in 2011.

Symptoms of Lyme disease are a rash, which can lead to fatigue and joint and muscle pain. More serious conditions such as viral-like meningitis, nerve damage and arthritis can develop without antibiotic treatment. People have been urged to remove a tick with a pair of tweezers as soon as possible to reduce the risk of becoming ill.

Dr Tim Brooks, head of Public Health England's rare and imported pathogens laboratory, which tests samples for Lyme disease, said: 'We strongly encourage everyone to enjoy spending time in the countryside this summer but it's important people are aware that tick bites can lead to unpleasant illnesses such as Lyme disease. There is not yet an effective vaccine against Lyme disease so tick awareness, avoidance of tick infested areas if possible, the use of appropriate clothing in areas where ticks are more common and early removal of attached ticks remain the most important prevention measures people can take to protect themselves and their families.'

People are urged to wear long trousers and a long sleeved shirt when passing through long grass and dense vegetation where ticks thrive and consider using insect repellents when visiting woodlands and heathlands.