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Q: I have heard a lot about Lyme disease but do not specifically know about its symptoms and whether it can be treated. I like to go in many hikes and would like to know what to do for prevention.
A: Lyme disease is a disease transmitted through ticks and is the leading tick transmitted disease in the United States. It is caused by a bacterium, which has been named Borrelia burgdorferi. This bacterium lives in many ticks and is transmitted to humans through their bite. This disease is named after the town of Old Lyme in Connecticut. However, it does not only occur in the United States, but is known to also occur in other countries, such as Europe and Asia. More than 90% of the cases in the United States have occurred in the Northeastern coastal states, northern California, and the upper Midwest. The incubation is usually about 7 to 10 days. The disease can affect the skin, joints, muscles, nerves, and heart. Usually, the patient develops a characteristic skin rash and flu-like symptoms, followed later by nerve and arthritic manifestations. Also, in some cases the disease can also affect the heart. Diagnosis rests on clinical suspicion and a blood test The typical first skin manifestation of the disease consists in a flat or slightly raised red lesion appearing at the site of the tick bite, which expands over the next few days, with clearing of the lesions at their center. Treatment consists in using certain antibiotics such as tetracycline, doxycycline , or amoxicillin. Prevention consists in following some simple steps such as covering exposed areas with long-sleeved shirts , wearing long trousers tucked into socks, using repellents, and inspecting one's body for ticks after being exposed to them. Vaccination is now possible.
Updated: 06/12/99
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