LYME DISEASE
Lyme Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment
Transmission: Lyme disease is caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected deer ticks. These ticks are commonly found in wooded areas, with disease-carrying ticks primarily prevalent in certain regions, particularly in Eastern Canada.
Symptoms: Early symptoms manifest within 3 to 30 days, progressing over weeks and months if untreated. The disease has three stages:
- Localized “bull’s-eye” rash with flu-like symptoms.
- Neurological manifestations and cardiac abnormalities.
- Joint problems and chronic neurological symptoms.
Seek medical attention if experiencing redness larger than 5 cm, multiple skin lesions, unusual muscle or joint pain, numbness, weakness, paralysis, or fatigue, headache, and fever in Lyme-prone areas.
Prevention: To reduce the risk of tick bites, wear protective clothing (long pants, long-sleeved shirts, closed shoes) and use insect repellent (DEET) on exposed skin and clothing. Conduct tick checks after being in tick-infested areas, removing ticks promptly with tweezers. Lyme disease risk is low if the tick is attached for less than 24 hours.
Treatment: Antibiotics prescribed by a physician are used for Lyme disease treatment.
Note: For detailed guidance, refer to the Public Health Agency of Canada’s information on Lyme disease.