Lyme disease is an infection caused by bacteria transmitted through deer tick bites. Deer ticks are small and can often go unnoticed and ticks carrying Lyme are most prevalent in the northeastern and midwestern U.S. The states it is most reported in are: Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Wisconsin. About 35,000 cases of this bacterial disease are reported each year, and there is a 1-3% risk of infection after a tick bite.
How is Lyme Disease Diagnosed?
Early symptoms of Lyme Disease can include fever, headache, fatigue, a stiff neck, and a flat reddish skin rash called erythema migrans. The rash largely resembles a bull’s eye and does not usually itch. When untreated the disease can spread to joints, the nervous system, as well as the heart. Lyme disease is diagnosed based on symptoms (such as a rash from a tick bite) and there are a few lab tests available.
How is Lyme Disease treated?
Most cases are completely eradicated with a few weeks of treatment with antibiotics. These antibiotics include doxycycline, amoxicillin, or cefuroxime axetil.
How can you prevent Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is on the rise due to climate change. The best way to prevent Lyme Disease is to prevent tick bites. Make sure to shower within a couple of hours after visiting any wooded areas. Make sure to check yourself in the mirror– especially in areas not typically visible, such as your back, and especially your hair. Remove any ticks as quickly as possible and make an appointment with your physician if you have a tick bite, they may decide to prescribe preventative antibiotics. When exploring the outdoors make sure to walk in the center of paths, away from grass or shrubs, wear long sleeves and light-colored clothing so that ticks will be visible, and use an insect repellant.
