In some parts of Canada and the US, the warming temperature could be the cause of the rise in tick-borne illnesses. Currently, ticks are thriving in a broad geographic range and appear earlier and remain around to fall and spring. This implies that people should be vigilant about protecting themselves against ticks that cause Lyme disease and other diseases. Here is why it is important to prevent Lyme disease.
Symptoms of Lyme disease
The disease is characterized by a bull’s-eye red rash that appears following a bite from an infected tick. Around 20-30% of people may not have the trash, and the rash might not be visible since ticks bite in dark folds like armpits, groin, or aching joints. However, if you see a rash or have any of these symptoms, you can contact a doctor. Immediate antibiotic treatment could eliminate bacterial infection.
If treatment is not given early or the rash is missed, the bacteria could spread to various parts of the body. The bacteria can cause problems to the body, and at the same time, the immune system could overreact to the infection. If treated for Lyme disease, individuals develop post-Lyme disease syndrome that could result in debilitating symptoms including brain fog, depression, and fatigue.
How do you avoid Lyme disease?
Preventing bites from ticks will be the best way to avoid Lyme disease and other related diseases. Blacklegged ticks are infected with Lyme disease-causing bacteria and if you reside in areas where Lyme disease incidence is high, take the following steps.
Be aware that ticks are lurking. Usually, ticks crawl from blades of grass or leave to the legs. So be careful when walking in meadows or files.
Wear protective clothing: The best way to keep ticks from crawling up your legs is to put on pants and tucked-in socks.
Use repellents: You can use clothing pre-treated with permethrin insecticide. You can spray your shoes and clothes but ensure you follow directions. On exposed skin, you can use products containing DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus picaridin, para-menthane-diol, IR3534, or 2-undercanone.
