ALL ABOUT LYME DISEASE

Our health writer, Jackie Mitchell, finds out more.

LYME Disease is a bacterial infection that is transmitted by a tick bite, although not all ticks carry the bacteria.

According to Lyme Disease UK, it’s estimated between 10 to 20% of ticks in the UK carry the infection.

“In the UK it is the black legged tick (Ixodus ricinus) that carries the disease,” Julia Knight from Lyme Disease UK says.

“You are more likely to pick up a tick from any outdoor activity where there is long grass, but ticks can also be found in urban parks and gardens.

“Deer can carry ticks, and birds and mammals such as squirrels or mice are frequent carriers.

“Pets also pick up ticks.

“If going on holiday, bear in mind that infected ticks can be found throughout Europe, Scandinavia and North America.”

Some people with Lyme Disease develop a specific rash called “erythema migrans”, sometimes called a “bullseye” rash because of its appearance.

“Not everyone gets this rash,” Julia says. “You may get flu-like symptoms, headache, neck ache, sore muscles and joints and extreme fatigue. Some people experience facial palsy.”

It is important that Lyme Disease is diagnosed and treated quickly to prevent the bacteria circulating around the body.

“If treated quickly, people can go on to recover without any longer lasting symptoms,” Julia says.

“The usual treatment is antibiotics for twenty-one days and a further course if the person still has symptoms.”

There are many measures that can be taken to prevent Lyme Disease.

When hiking or doing other outdoor activities, it’s a good idea to have a tick removal tool with you.

Wear a long-sleeved top and tuck trousers into socks to reduce skin exposure.

Light-coloured clothing may enable you to see ticks more easily.

“The most important step is to regularly check for ticks when out and about and brush off any that are unattached,” Julia says.

“Do check pets as well. If you see an embedded tick, remove it as soon as possible using the correct tick removal technique.

“If any part of it is left behind, keep an eye on the area for any signs of localised infection.

“There are several tick removal tools on the market. You can use fine-pointed tweezers, but not eyebrow tweezers which risk squashing the tick.

“After removing the tick, clean the area with a disinfectant wipe and wash hands with soap and water.”

In an emergency, it’s possible to remove a tick using dental floss, a fine thread or a hair – tie a loop around the mouthparts of the tick and pull upwards and outwards. Do not twist.

Dispose of the tick by squashing it in a tissue, ensuring no fluid touches your hands, then flush away.

Visit lymediseaseuk.com for more information. ■