Lyme Disease
Description |
Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria from ticks |
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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 other areas and could last for days or weeks. Heart, nervous system and joint 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. |