With the blossoming of spring comes the burgeoning of thousands of cases of Lyme disease silently striking down adults,children and pets across the country.
The CDC (in the US) reported over 64,000 cases of Lyme disease in a two year span (2003 – 2005) but actual cases in the following years continue to climb much higher. One Connecticut town recently found that 48% of residents had at least one family member with a current or past history of treatment for Lyme Disease.
Where is Lyme Disease found?
Lyme Disease can occur anywhere, however the states with the highest incidence are:
- Connecticut (with the highest rate in the nation)
- Delaware
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- New Jersey
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Wisconsin
How do I get Lyme Disease (How is it contracted)?
- Lyme Disease is contracted by humans through a deer tick bite. The deer tick is a small black legged tick that contracts the bacteria (borrelia burgdorgeri) while feeding on white footed mice, small mammals and certain types of birds.
- Most people contract Lyme in the months of June, July and August when ticks are in the nymph stage; in this stage ticks are tiny and very hard to see.
What are the symptoms of Lyme Disease?
The symptoms can include all or only some of the following:
- Fever
- Headache
- Rash - An “expanding” rash is a common symptom or Erythema Migrans. This "bulls-eye" like rash is seen in 80% of Lyme patients.
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Flu like symptoms
- Malaise
- Joint aches
What is the incubation period for Lyme Disease?
The incubation is usually 7-14 days (from exposure to onset of symptoms) but can be as short as 3 days or as long as 30 days.
Are there complications?
Yes, if untreated complications can impact joints, cardiovascular and nervous systems.
How do I get tested for Lyme?
Your medical professional may choose to perform a blood test for Lyme and may also perform a simple skin biopsy depending on the presenting symptoms and the history of tick bite(s) (especially a history of an attached tick longer than 24 hours).
What is the treatment for Lyme Disease?
- Most patients are cured with antibiotic treatment given by mouth for a few weeks. These antibiotics may include doxcycline, amoxicillin or cefuroxime axetil.
- Patients with complications (including neurological and cardiac complications) often require treatment with intravenous drugs which may include ceftriaxone or penicillin.
How do I prevent Lyme Disease?
Daily tick checks for all members of the family (including pets) are essential. Examine the entire body including hairline, waist, armpits, groin and back of knees.
Wear preventative dress when outside especially in areas of tall grasses, moist, shady areas, areas with piles of leaves, shady gardens or in areas with dense ground cover. Preventative dress includes the following:
- Light colored long pants.
- Long sleeves.
- A hat to cover hair and long hair tied back.
- Pant legs tucked into socks and shirts tucked into pants.
If you choose to use repellent, those with DEET or Permethrin are effective.
How do I remove a tick?
If the tick is unattached, remove with tweezers if needed. It does not usually pose a Lyme Disease risk if removed early.
If the tick is attached-
- Remove with tweezers, grabbing the tick where the mouth parts enter the skin.
- Pull upward, using a slow and steady motion.
- Do not squeeze.
- Contrary to popular beliefs – petroleum jelly or matches should not be used to remove an attached tick.
- If small parts remain (mouth parts) - do not dig them out. Small mouth parts do not pose a risk and will work themselves out of the skin.
- Clean the area with soap and water and/or an antiseptic solution.
Should I save the tick?
Some health districts (especially in highly affected states) will examine and test removed ticks for residents. Contact your local heath department for information and for proper specimen instruction.
Prevention, early discovery and disease identification is critical in preserving the health of both your pets and family throughout the impending Lyme Disease season.
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