CritterChatter™ Blog
Lyme Disease
| Description | Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria from ticks |
|---|---|
| Location | Mountains or highlands regions of western states and western Canada that contain rocky surfaces with moderate shrub cover and scattered pines |
| Cause | Bite by an infected tick |
| Symptoms | Headache, slight fever, muscle or joint pain, neck stiffness, swollen glands, jaw discomfort and inflammation of the eye membranes A rash (erythema migrans) occurs in 65–75 percent of cases. The rash often looks like a bulls-eye with central clearing and/or darkening around the edge. Additional skin lesions may appear in order areas and could last for days or weeks. Heart, nervous system and join manifestations may develop if untreated. |
| Treatment | Seek medical attention from a physician |
| Prevention | Avoid tick-infested habitats during spring and early summer Use personal protection, such as wearing pants and shirts with long sleeves |
| Other Facts | Over 9,000 cases were reported in 1992 in the northeastern and upper Midwest states in the United States, which were caused by the deer tick. |
